What to expect after Pacemaker and defibrillator implantation?
A slight swelling can be expected after surgery and should resolve within a week. If the swelling increases over the next few days, there may be a collection of blood clot (hematoma) and you must be evaluated soon. Tenderness is normal for the first 24 hours, but significant amount of pain after 24 hours should raise concern and should be evaluated right away. Within 2 to 3 days, some amount of black and blue can be seen on the skin extending from the pacemaker to the shoulder and down to the arm. This is normal as long as there is not a significant amount of swelling at the site of surgery. Redness, swelling, and pain above and beyond what is described above may indicate infection and should be promptly evaluated by your physician. For other postoperative instruction, please see frequently asked questions section. Conflict of Instructions. As with pre-operative instructions (see above), there is often inconsistencies between the discharge instructions given by your nurses in the hospi
