Patient was instructed about replacing the pacemaker as follows:

1. The pacemaker generally lasts 6 to 8 years, depending on many factors including how often it paces the heart and how much energy it uses when pacing.
2. The pacemaker alerts the physician when it needs replacement by changing the rate at which it paces. This is recognized by the telephone monitoring service or during a routine office visit.
3. A new pacemaker can be inserted as an outpatient procedure. It is performed under local anesthesia in less than one hour.
4. More often, only the pulse generator needs to be replaced.
5. Occasionally, a problem is discovered with one of the pacing leads. If this is the case, the lead is replaced and you may need to spend the night following surgery in the hospital.