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Correct Answer: electrical pulses to control the heart beat.
pacemakers are small, implantable medical devices that are primarily used to treat arrhythmias, which are problems associated with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. when a person's heart beats too quickly, too slowly, or with an irregular pattern, a pacemaker can be employed to restore a normal rhythm.
the primary function of a pacemaker is to send electrical pulses directly to the heart to ensure it beats at a regular rate and rhythm. these electrical impulses simulate the natural action of the heart's own electrical system, which is responsible for initiating the contractions of the heart muscle that pump blood throughout the body.
the device itself typically consists of a pulse generator, which includes a battery and the electronics that control the impulses sent to the heart, and one or more leads. these leads are thin, insulated wires that are threaded through the veins and into the heart. they deliver the electrical pulses from the generator to the heart's ventricles (or atria, depending on the type of pacing needed).
pacemakers are implanted under the skin, usually in the chest area just below the collarbone. the procedure is performed under local anesthesia and may require a short hospital stay. once implanted, the pacemaker's settings can be adjusted externally by a doctor using a special programming device.
it’s important to note that pacemakers do not cure heart disease or prevent heart attacks, but they can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with significant rhythm disturbances. they allow many individuals to maintain a more active lifestyle than would otherwise be possible with their underlying heart condition.
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