Do Pacemakers Move Around?

Answer: The position of a pacemaker can shift over time. After about a year, however, a strong capsule has formed around the device and it should not move any further.

What happens if a pacemaker moves?

ICDs are typically slightly larger than a pacemaker. If the device feels loose or wiggles in the pocket under the skin, report this to your healthcare provider. Excessive movement can cause a detachment of the generator from the wires, or the wires from the heart muscle, and the device will not work properly.

Can a pacemaker become dislodged?

Discussion: Pacemaker leads are more likely to become dislodged in the first few days to weeks of placement, although the overall incidence is low(<1-2%).