PATIENT INFORMATION
I have a pacemaker or defibrillator
Some operations and types of surgical equipment can interact with implanted cardiac devices, so perioperative planning may be needed.
What to tell the team
- What type of device you have (pacemaker, defibrillator or both)
- Why it was implanted
- When it was last checked
- Which hospital or clinic follows it
- Whether you have been told you depend on it for your heartbeat
- Whether your defibrillator has given you a shock recently
What to bring
Bring the device card if you have one, and your most recent device check report.
Why it matters
Surgical equipment that uses electrical current to cut or seal tissue can interfere with some devices. Depending on the device and the operation, the team may:
- Arrange a device check before or after surgery
- Temporarily adjust the device settings
- Temporarily switch off the shock function of a defibrillator, with monitoring and backup in place
- Choose equipment and settings that reduce interference
Contact the hospital before surgery if
You have had fainting, a shock from your device, or a warning alert from your device since your last check.