What is temporary pacing? 

Temporary pacing is a short-term method used to control a patient’s heart rhythm when the heart beats too slowly or irregularly. A pacing wire or catheter delivers electrical impulses to stimulate the heart until a more permanent solution can be provided or until the condition resolves on its own. 

Who might be a candidate for temporary pacing? 

  • Patients with symptomatic bradycardia (slow heart rate) that requires urgent intervention. 
  • Individuals awaiting permanent pacemaker implantation. 
  • Patients recovering from cardiac surgery or heart procedures who develop rhythm issues. 
  • Those with medication-induced heart block or reversible causes of slow heart rhythm. 

What to expect during temporary pacing 

  • The pacing lead is typically inserted through a vein (such as the femoral, jugular, or subclavian vein). 
  • It is guided into the heart using imaging or electrocardiographic monitoring. 
  • The device may be external (transvenous) or applied to the chest wall in emergencies (transcutaneous). 
  • Sedation or local anesthesia is often used, depending on the method. 
  • Temporary pacing is monitored closely in a hospital setting, typically in an intensive care or cardiac unit. 

What are the risks of temporary pacing? 

  • Infection at the insertion site or bloodstream infection. 
  • Bleeding or damage to the vein during insertion. 
  • Dislodgement or malfunction of the pacing wire. 
  • Irritation or damage to heart tissue, especially with prolonged use. 
  • Discomfort with external pacing methods, particularly transcutaneous pacing. 

Recovery from temporary pacing 

  • Patients are monitored continuously for rhythm stability. 
  • The pacing site is checked regularly for signs of infection or bleeding. 
  • Leads are typically removed once a permanent device is implanted or the underlying issue resolves. 
  • Recovery depends on the patient’s overall condition and the reason for pacing. 
  • Patients may need additional cardiac workup before discharge. 

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