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| Prosthetic Cardiac Pacemaker |
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| The sinoatrial node, known as SA node is located in the right atrial wall below the opening of the superior vena cava. The SA node initiates the cardiac cycle and sets the basic pace for the heart rate, hence called the pacemaker. |
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| If this normal and natural electrical stimulation of heart fails, the conduction system is disrupted and heart blocks may result. In patients with heart block, normal heart rate can be restored and maintained with an Artificial Pace Maker. |
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| A pace maker is a device that sends out small electrical charges that stimulate the heart. It consists of a pulse generator, a lead and an electrode. The pacemaker is inserted and implanted within the body as shown in figure. The Lithium battery provides power for about 10 years. It transmits repeated electrical impulses to the heart, that the heart rate is maintained at the required level. |
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| (b) |
| (a) Artificial pacemaker |
| (b) Diagram of an implanted artificial pacemaker |
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