Implantable Devices

Trust the skilled and experienced heart and vascular surgeons at Essentia Health to safely place an implantable medical device that can assist your heart and improve your health.

Heart Devices

Surgically implanted devices can be used to control the rhythm of your heart, improve your heart’s ability to pump blood, or prevent blood clots from entering your bloodstream. Depending on your condition, your health care team may recommend a:

  • Pacemaker
  • Left ventricular assist device (LVAD)
  • Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
  • Closure implant, such as a Watchman™
  • Loop recorder
  • Other device

Pacemakers

You may need a pacemaker after a heart attack to help your heart have a normal rhythm. A pacemaker is a small, battery-operated device that is placed under the skin in your chest.

LVAD

Your doctor may recommend the placement of an LVAD if your heart needs help pumping blood. An LVAD is a mechanical, battery-operated pumping device. Getting an LVAD can help prevent the need for a heart transplant.

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

If you have an irregular heart rhythm, having an ICD placed in your chest or abdomen can help treat it. An ICD is a battery-powered device that tracks your heart rate and can correct its rhythm if needed.

Watchman

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a type of arrhythmia where your heart beats irregularly. If you have AFib that isn’t caused by a heart valve problem, also called non-valvular AFib, your doctor may recommend getting a Watchman device instead of taking the blood thinning medication Warfarin. A Watchman can reduce your risk of having a stroke.

Ask for a Referral

You’ll need a referral from your primary care provider or a specialist for this service.