Mr. Tai, 75, had a history of cardiovascular diseases, including high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and chronic coronary syndrome, for which he previously underwent stent placement and bypass surgery. His health remained stable with consistent medication, showing no symptoms of fatigue or fainting. He regularly monitored his health at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City.

During his most recent check-up, an electrocardiogram revealed abnormalities. He then underwent 48-hour Holter ECG monitoring, which detected multiple sinus pauses lasting over two seconds. Doctors diagnosed him with severe sick sinus syndrome, a dangerous heart rhythm disorder.

Professor Doctor Vo Thanh Nhan, Director of the Interventional Cardiology Center, observed that Mr. Tai's heart rate was slow, averaging 45-50 beats per minute, with frequent pauses of several seconds. Such prolonged slow heart rates or pauses can abruptly reduce blood flow to the brain, causing fainting. He stated that medication alone was insufficient, necessitating a pacemaker to restore a safe heart rhythm.

Mr. Tai received the new generation Micra AV2 wireless pacemaker. This procedure avoids open-chest surgery, thereby reducing risks of infection, hematoma, and hemothorax. The device boasts a lifespan of up to 16 years, exceeding the 10-12 year lifespan of previous wireless pacemaker models.

Professor Nhan (left) and his team implant a capsule-sized pacemaker in the patient. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Mr. Tai remained conscious during the 30-minute procedure, which was performed under local anesthesia. The pacemaker monitors heart activity, automatically delivering electrical impulses if it detects a slow or prolonged heartbeat pause. These impulses stimulate the heart to beat at a preset, regular frequency. After the intervention, Mr. Tai's heart rate stabilized at 60-70 beats per minute. Subsequent electrocardiograms showed no prolonged sinus pauses, and he was discharged healthy after two days.

Professor Nhan explained that while sick sinus syndrome can affect all ages, it is most prevalent in individuals over 70. He emphasized the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to mitigate disease risk. This includes a diet rich in green vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, lean meats, poultry, and low-fat or fat-free dairy, while limiting processed foods, sweets, and fast food. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are essential to prevent overweight and obesity. Individuals should also avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and manage underlying conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and chronic kidney disease.

Patients experiencing common cardiovascular symptoms, such as a slow heart rate, palpitations, chest pain or discomfort, confusion, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting or near-fainting, fatigue, or shortness of breath, should seek immediate medical attention.

Thu Ha

*Patient's name has been changed