Temporary Pacing

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.