Using this guide What's covered
Here you’ll find the answers to many of your questions about implantable cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators. Learn about how the implantation surgeries work, what they may cost, what your recovery may be like, and more.
To see how pacemaker implantation is done, view the animation below. For personal insights, see our patient experience videos in which HCF members talk frankly about their preparation, surgery and recovery.
Cost indicator
Discover the typical out-of-pocket costs HCF members can expect to pay for pacemaker and defibrillator implantation and learn how your choice of doctor and hospital affect that cost.
The basics
Overview
Implantable pacemakers and defibrillators are battery-powered electronic devices that are placed in your chest to treat abnormal heart rhythms. Over 17,000 pacemaker surgeries are performed in Australia every year.
Signs you may need pacemaker surgery
- You have an abnormally slow or rapid heartbeat
- Your heart beats irregularly, maybe stopping for several seconds at a time
The details
Considering surgery
How pacemakers and implantable defibrillators work
How the devices can be used to treat arrhythmias and heart failure.
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Why might I need a device?
The conditions that could lead to you needing a device.
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Treatments to consider before opting for surgery
Treatment of underlying conditions or medication may be the first step.
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Results vs risks of surgery
The benefits and potential complications of pacemakers and implantable defibrillators.
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Preparation
Choosing a specialist
How to find a surgeon who specialises in your procedure.
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Questions for your cardiologist & anaesthetist
What you should be asking before going ahead with surgery.
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Preparing for surgery
Pre-operative tests and what you can do to reduce the risk of complications.
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Your anaesthetic options
The types of anaesthetic you may be offered.
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Your surgery
Going to hospital
What to expect on the day of your procedure.
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Your procedure
What happens in the operating theatre.
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Recovery & aftercare
After surgery
Your aftercare and recovery.
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Living with a pacemaker or defibrillator
Travel and medical procedure guidelines and follow-up appointments.
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Patient experiences
HCF members who’ve had a pacemaker or defibrillator implanted talk about preparation, their hospital stay, and their recovery.
View videos
Living with Heart DiseasE
People with heart disease talk about the impact it's had on their physcial and mental health, and how they stay positive.
View videos
Give us feedback
Did you find this guide helpful? Let us know what you liked or what we can do to improve it. We'd love to hear from you.
To provide feedback, email us at wellbeing@hcf.com.au.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Information is provided by HCF in good faith for the convenience of members. It is not an endorsement or recommendation of any form of treatment nor is it a substitute for medical advice, and you should rely on the advice of your treating doctors in relation to all matters concerning your health. Every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, however HCF takes no responsibility for any injury, loss, damage or other consequences of the use of this information.