A pacemaker is a device, about the size of 4 stacked silver dollars, which is implanted under the skin and has wires (leads) that pass into the heart. It sends a very small electrical impulse through the leads into the muscle of the heart about once every second to stimulate contraction of the heart. Its main purpose is to make sure a person’s heart rate does not become too slow. Related Links: Joseph Thibodeau, MD www.alegent.com Alegent Health Heart & Vascular Specialists www.alegent.com Cardiology Blog www.alegent.com Alegent Health Podcast #27 Heart Palpitations www.alegent.com Alegent Health Clinic www.alegent.com







