A-Z Invasive Tests and Procedures Pacemaker Placement Pacemakers are a necessary and effective way to treat some problems with the heart's electrical or conduction system. Although more common in adults, pacemakers can be safely implanted at any age, from infancy through old age. Pacemakers use batteries as their energy source. The batteries have a life span of 7 to 15 years depending on the type of pacemaker and amount of time the heart requires pacing.
Pacemakers use wires or leads to deliver the energy from the batteries to the heart.
The wires also have a limited life span. Therefore, a child may be scheduled for a first-time pacemaker, replacement of the batteries or replacement of the leads. Pacemaker implantation in children is done under general anesthesia so your child will be asleep during the entire procedure. If your child is scheduled for placement of a pacemaker, you will receive confirmation of the date of the procedure and the time you should arrive at the hospital by mail. Usually, your child will need to be seen the day before the procedure for some tests.