Postoperative follow-up of patients with pacemakers in the state of Veracruz

Abstract

Introduction. Currently, one of the main causes of morbidity or mortality in Mexico is cardiovascular disease. Nowadays, advances in technology have allowed pacemakers to improve survival, symptom control, and patient quality, but the follow-up phase after the implantation procedure remains critical.

Objective: To describe the postoperative follow-up of patients with pacemaker use in the state of Veracruz, in order to detect any problem in the postoperative period

Material and methods. A retrospective observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted. Demographic variables, comorbidities, implant indication, device type and mode, as well as follow-up data at 4–6 weeks, 3–6 months, and annual review were collected. A descriptive analysis of the variables was performed

Results: A total of 143 patients over 18 years of age who underwent pacemaker implantation were included, of which 43 corresponded to the General Hospital of Zone No. 8 IMSS Córdoba and 100 to the Regional General Hospital of Orizaba. The mean age was 74.51 ± 11.18 years in Córdoba and 75.16 ± 12.01 years in Orizaba, with a predominance of females and a predominance of systemic arterial hypertension. The most frequent indication was complete atrioventricular block. Most patients had no immediate adverse events. At follow-up, 100% of the patients attended at 4–6 weeks in Córdoba and 97% in Orizaba. At 3–6 months, adherence was 100% in Córdoba and 94% in Orizaba. In the annual review, attendance decreased to 67.44% in Córdoba and 85% in Orizaba.

Conclusion.  Postoperative follow-up showed high initial adherence and low frequency of complications recorded.