A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device that helps regulate the heartbeat. It is implanted under the skin near the collarbone through a small incision. The device has three parts: a pulse generator, one or more leads, and an electrode on each lead. The pulse generator is a small metal case that contains electronic circuitry with a small computer and a battery that regulate the impulses sent to the heart. The leads are flexible wires that are positioned in the atrium or ventricle or both, depending on the medical condition. The electrode at the end of the lead detects abnormal heartbeats and delivers electrical impulses to return the heart to its normal rhythm. There are different types of pacemakers, including:

• Single chamber pacemaker: This type usually sends electrical signals to the lower right chamber of the heart.
• Dual chamber pacemaker: This type sends electrical signals to the upper and lower right heart chambers.
• Biventricular pacemaker: This type also is called a cardiac resynchronization pacemaker. Its for people who have heart failure and a slow heartbeat. The device stimulates both lower heart chambers. It helps make the heart muscle stronger.

A pacemaker is used to control or increase the heartbeat. It stimulates the heart as needed to keep it beating regularly. A pacemaker only works when it senses trouble with the heartbeat. For example, if the heart beats too slowly, the pacemaker sends electrical signals to correct the beat. Some pacemakers can increase the heartbeat as needed, such as during exercise. Pacemakers are meant to improve the quality of life and prevent disruptions caused by heart problems. They are used to treat some abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that can occur when the electrical conduction system of the heart is not working properly.