Pacemaker & ICD Implantation in Mumbai | SL Raheja Hospital

What is Pacemaker and ICD Implantation, and who is it for?

SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai offers pacemaker and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) implantation for patients with heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias). A pacemaker regulates a heartbeat that is too slow or irregular, while an ICD detects and corrects dangerous fast rhythms that can cause sudden cardiac arrest. Both devices are implanted through a minimally invasive procedure performed by cardiology specialists at our Mahim facility.

Arrhythmias occur when the heart's electrical conduction system is disrupted — due to ageing, heart disease, a previous heart attack, congenital defects, or electrolyte imbalances. When medication alone is insufficient, device therapy provides continuous, automatic protection around the clock.

Who needs a Pacemaker or ICD?

A cardiologist at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim may recommend a pacemaker or ICD after evaluating your symptoms, ECG, Holter monitoring, echocardiography, and electrophysiology studies. Device therapy is typically indicated when one or more of the following conditions are present:

• Bradycardia — persistent slow heart rate that causes dizziness, fatigue, or fainting
• Complete or partial heart block — disruption of electrical signals between the upper and lower chambers
• Sick sinus syndrome — the heart's natural pacemaker fires too slowly or erratically
• Ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation — rapid, chaotic rhythms that can cause sudden cardiac arrest
• Previous episode of sudden cardiac arrest — high risk of recurrence requiring ICD protection
• Severely weakened heart muscle — low ejection fraction with elevated risk of life-threatening arrhythmia
• Heart failure requiring cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) — poor coordination between heart chambers reducing pumping efficiency
• Recurrent unexplained fainting — confirmed to be caused by a rhythm disorder

How is Pacemaker or ICD Implantation performed at SL Raheja Hospital?

The implantation is a minimally invasive procedure performed in a specialised cardiac catheterisation laboratory. It is carried out under local anaesthesia with mild sedation, typically lasting one to three hours depending on device complexity. The steps below outline the standard pathway:

1. Pre-operative assessment — Diagnostic workup including ECG, echocardiography, Holter monitoring, blood tests, and electrophysiology studies to confirm the indication and select the appropriate device.
2. Preparation — The patient is positioned, the chest area below the collarbone is cleaned and draped, and local anaesthesia with sedation is administered for comfort.
3. Venous access — A small incision (approximately 4–6 cm) is made just below the collarbone. One or more insulated leads are advanced through a nearby vein into the heart under continuous X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy).
4. Lead positioning and testing — Leads are carefully positioned in the correct heart chambers and tested to confirm stable electrical contact and appropriate sensing and pacing thresholds.
5. Pulse generator placement — The leads are connected to the pulse generator, which is placed in a small pocket created beneath the skin or muscle below the collarbone.
6. Wound closure — The incision is closed with sutures, staples, or surgical adhesive. A final device check confirms correct function before the patient is moved to recovery.
7. Post-operative monitoring — Heart rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are monitored continuously throughout and immediately after the procedure.

What types of devices are available, and how do they differ?

The choice of device depends on the type of arrhythmia, heart function, and individual clinical factors. The table below summarises the main device categories:

Your cardiologist will recommend the most appropriate device based on your diagnostic results and clinical profile. To discuss which device is right for you, use the booking form on this page or email info@rahejahospital.com.

What does recovery look like after Pacemaker or ICD Implantation?

Recovery after device implantation is generally straightforward. The milestones below reflect the typical post-operative pathway; your cardiologist will provide personalised guidance based on your device type and overall health.

1. Day 0–1 (Hospital stay): Patients are observed for approximately one to two days. The care team performs device checks to confirm correct function and stable lead position. Mild soreness or bruising around the incision is normal.
2. Days 1–7 (Early recovery at home): Light daily activities can usually be resumed within a few days. The incision should be kept clean and dry. Pain is typically manageable with medications prescribed by the physician.
3. Weeks 1–2 (Return to routine): Most patients can return to desk-based or light work within one to two weeks, depending on occupation and overall health.
4. Weeks 2–6 (Activity restrictions): Avoid raising the arm on the implant side above shoulder level and avoid lifting heavy objects. This allows the leads to settle securely in position.
5. Beyond 6 weeks (Full resumption): More strenuous activities and heavier lifting may be resumed as advised by the cardiologist. Contact sports require specific guidance.
6. Ongoing (Long-term follow-up): Regular device checks monitor battery life and device performance. Many modern devices support remote monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Battery life typically ranges from 5 to 15 years; replacement of the pulse generator is usually a straightforward procedure.

What are the risks and considerations of Pacemaker or ICD Implantation?

Pacemaker and ICD implantation are well-established procedures, but as with any surgical intervention, there are risks that patients should understand before proceeding. Your cardiologist will discuss these in detail during your consultation.

• Infection at the incision site or around the device pocket — signs include redness, swelling, fever, or wound drainage
• Lead displacement — a lead may shift position shortly after implantation, occasionally requiring repositioning
• Bleeding or haematoma — bruising or blood pooling around the device pocket
• Pneumothorax — inadvertent puncture of the lung during venous access, which may require treatment
• Inappropriate ICD shocks — the device may occasionally deliver a shock in response to a non-life-threatening rhythm, which can be distressing
• Device malfunction — rare, but regular follow-up checks are essential to detect any issues early
• Electromagnetic interference — strong magnetic or electromagnetic fields (certain industrial equipment, some MRI protocols) may affect device function; specific guidance is provided at discharge
• Vascular injury — rare injury to blood vessels during lead placement

The decision to implant a device is made only when the clinical benefit clearly outweighs these risks. Your care team at SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim will ensure you have a thorough understanding of both before proceeding.

Which cardiology specialists perform these procedures at SL Raheja Hospital?

SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai has a dedicated cardiology team experienced in the implantation and follow-up management of pacemakers and ICDs. Device implantation is performed by qualified cardiologists and cardiac electrophysiologists with specialist training in interventional and device-based cardiac care.

To find out which specialist is best suited to your condition, or to request an appointment, please use the booking form on this page or contact us at info@rahejahospital.com. Our team will match you with the appropriate clinician based on your diagnosis and clinical needs.