The artificial pacemaker is one of the most important medical tools today. This is a solution for people with heart beat problems. This small device is placed by a doctor inside the skin of the patient through a simple surgical procedure wherein the latter receives a dose of local anaesthetic. The device would then track the heart beat of the patient; if the beat is too slow, too fast or there is irregularity, then the device would send an electronic pulse to stimulate the heart muscle to contract thus correcting the heart beat.
There are four methods of pacing when this device is used. The first of them is called Transcutaneous pacing or TCP is also known as external pacing. This is used for initial stabilization. It is done by placing two flat pads on the chest of the patient then the doctor or emergency personnel delivers the electric pulse.
The next method is known as Transvenous Pacing. This is used for temporary pacing wherein a wire is placed through a vein to the right atrium or ventricle and it is connected to an external pacemaker.
The third method is percussive pacing. This is done in emergency situations as a first aid wherein a closed fist pushes down on the sternum about 20 to 30cm over the right ventricle in order to create a ventricular beat.
Last is the Permanent Pacing wherein the artificial pacemaker is implanted into the patient. This is placed in the left shoulder just under the patient’s collar bone to induce a ventricular beat automatically.
