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Nurse checking patients heart rate heart beat using a stethoscope

Why choose Geisinger for pacemakers and defibrillators?

Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are small devices surgically implanted to help regulate your heartbeat. Both connect to your heart through tiny wires and can reduce your risk of cardiac arrest.

The difference comes down to what your heart needs. When your heartbeat is too slow, doctors generally use pacemakers, which send electrical signals to keep the heart beating regularly. When your heartbeat is dangerously fast or erratic, doctors use ICDs that deliver a small electric shock to restore a normal rhythm.

Our cardiologists and electrophysiologists have extensive experience implanting pacemakers and defibrillators. And we're recognized worldwide for advancing heart pacing techniques that help patients receive safer, more effective care.

Ask your primary care provider for a referral, and give us a call.

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FAQs

What's the difference between a pacemaker and a defibrillator?

Pacemakers treat a heartbeat that's too slow by sending electrical signals to keep it on rhythm. ICDs treat a heartbeat that's too fast or erratic by delivering a small shock to restore a normal rhythm. Both are implanted devices connected to the heart through tiny wires.

What is bradycardia?

Bradycardia is a heartbeat that's too slow. It can cause dizziness, fatigue or fainting. A pacemaker is often used to help regulate the heart's rhythm in people with bradycardia.

What is tachycardia?

Tachycardia is a heartbeat that's too fast. In some cases it can be dangerous, leading to cardiac arrest. An ICD can monitor your heart and deliver a shock if it detects a dangerously fast or irregular rhythm.

Are there any pacemaker alternatives?

There are alternatives to traditional wired pacemakers, such as leadless pacemakers which are placed entirely within the heart with no wires connected. Talk with your cardiologist or electrophysiologist about your heart condition and whether any alternative options are right for you.

Pacemaker and defibrillator care at Geisinger

Pacemakers and defibrillators are lifesaving devices, and getting them right takes skill and experience. Here's what sets our program apart:

  • Care close to home, with an experienced team: With locations in central and northeastern Pennsylvania, you'll find cardiologists and electrophysiologists close to you. No need to travel far for pacemaker and defibrillator care.
  • Specialization with implantable devices: With extensive experience implanting pacemakers and defibrillators across a variety of cases, your team knows these devices inside and out.
  • Innovative approaches: We've pioneered new approaches to cardiac pacing that have led to better, safer and more effective outcomes for people with pacemakers. And our electrophysiology labs offer a range of diagnostic tests and options for arrhythmia treatment.