“Choosing CBMC for my care was easy, as the hospital’s reputation for excellence was confirmed by my decades of experience as an EMT in New Jersey.”
“I had always been apprehensive about getting a traditional chest-mounted pacemaker. The thought of having a visible bulge and wires running to my heart made me hesitant. However, when I spoke to Dr. Gourg Atteya, cardiac electrophysiologist at Cooperman Barnabas, he introduced me to a new option: a leadless, wireless pacemaker. It seemed like a simpler, less invasive choice,” says Richard Boyer.
“Unlike conventional pacemakers, the leadless dual chamber pacemaker devices are implanted directly into the heart via a catheter, eliminating the need for wires and chest incisions,” shares Dr. Atteya. “Also, the patient can return to full life activities in about a week, with absolutely no restrictions.”
Richard experienced several frightening fainting episodes, which eventually culminated in a significant incident where he collapsed while alone. He had lost consciousness for an unknown duration, and when he came to, his heart rate was alarmingly low.
“The underlying issue of my erratic blood pressure and slow heart rate continued to linger,” he shared. “I spoke to Dr. Atteya about my options again, and this time my decision became clearer.”
The traditional pacemaker involves implanting a silver dollar-sized metal box under the skin of the left chest, with wires running to the heart. “At 73 years old, I still value being physically active, and the idea of something so permanent, potentially restrictive, and visible didn’t sit well with me. I could only imagine how a conventional device would affect someone younger and more active,” he shares.
Dr. Atteya shares that the leadless dual chamber pacemaker is very small, about one-tenth the size of a traditional pacemaker, with long battery life, and has the ability to synchronize the electrical signals in the heart just like the traditional pacemaker.
Richard knew this leadless dual chamber pacemaker was the right choice for his lifestyle. “With this technology, it offers the benefits of reduced recovery time, fewer visible indicators, and an extremely low risk of infection,” adds Dr. Atteya.
In regards to choosing CBMC, Richard shares, “Choosing Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center for my care was easy, as the hospital’s reputation for excellence was confirmed by my decades of experience as an EMT in New Jersey.”
In addition, he shared the check-in process was straightforward, and the staff was supportive, providing a wheelchair when he needed it and monitoring his vitals.
He also explained that the nursing staff kept an eye on him while the surgical team came by to answer any last-minute questions. Richard’s doctor met with him to review the procedure and address any concerns, while the anesthesiologist also stopped by for a consultation as well.
Richard states, “Within just a week of the procedure, I was able to resume my normal activities. The procedure itself required only two small incisions in my upper leg, and today, I don’t even feel the device. There are no external indicators that I have a pacemaker.”
Before the procedure, Richard shared his heart rate was at 40 beats per minute, well below the normal range of around 60 beats per minute. But immediately after the procedure, his heart rate stabilized, and his blood pressure returned to a healthy range.
Overall, Richard expresses that the experience was smooth and reassuring, leading him to feel confident about his decision.
“The implant experience has been so uneventful that I often forget I have it. Life remains much the same. Despite being retired, I stay active, splitting firewood with a friend who owns a nearby property and working per diem for my municipality, plowing snow for long shifts. I still enjoy lunches with friends and time with my grandson,” says Richard. “Through it all, I’ve had no side effects, no pain, no dizziness. Aside from taking daily blood pressure medication, the implant hasn’t slowed me down at all.”
About CBMC’s Heart and Vascular Care
No one plans on heart problems, but everyone should have a plan for them. Make a plan for your heart health at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. Our multidisciplinary team of experts provide comprehensive, compassionate care. Learn more about our programs and specialties, which include diagnosis, treatment, and continued support for people living with cardiovascular and thoracic conditions.