A biventricular pacemaker stimulates the right and left ventricles of your heart to help them contract together (in sync) and pump more effectively. The use of this type of pacemaker is also called cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT).

Standard pacemakers have two wires that send electrical impulses to specific areas of the heart—one wire is in the right atrium, and the other is in the right ventricle. A biventricular pacemaker has a third wire in the left ventricle, which allows timed, coordinated signals to be sent to the right and left ventricles.

If needed, a biventricular pacemaker also can “shock” or defibrillate the heart, which helps control life-threatening irregular heartbeats.

A biventricular pacemaker is about the size of a pager. Like a standard pacemaker, it is often placed in the upper chest area just below the collarbone. The pacemaker placement takes about two hours and is done in the Electrophysiology (EP) Lab.

Life with your pacemaker

It is important to notify all of your physicians that you have a pacemaker. We can provide further information if there are any questions regarding whether or not you can undergo specific tests due to your pacemaker.

Activity guidelines

• Driving is allowed after one to six weeks. You will be given instructions about driving at your one-week follow-up appointment.
• Exercise is encouraged. It is important to start slowly and progress gradually. You can check your heart rate by taking your pulse before and after exercise. Be sure to rest when you are tired. Talk with your physician to see what options are best for you.
• Avoid exercise or activity that may result in blunt blows to the pacemaker site, such as contact sports.
• Avoid lifting objects over 10 pounds (groceries, laundry, children, etc.) until six weeks after surgery.
• Avoid activity involving stretching and/or reaching movements for six weeks (such as golf or tennis).
• Avoid swimming for six weeks until the incision is completely healed, to decrease the risk of infections.
• Avoid dental work for three months.

Magnets and electrical devices

Follow-up care

After your pacemaker is implanted, you will be followed closely by your physician to ensure that it is working properly. The pacemaker may be re-programmed to fit your changing healthcare needs. Rest assured that examining and adjusting the pacemaker is quick and painless. Your pacemaker will last up to 10 years, depending on how often it is used and how it is programmed. Part of your follow-up care involves checking the battery life of your pacemaker. Your follow-up care will be managed through the pacemaker clinic.