Treatment for heart block is usually only required when it is causing symptoms (symptomatic). However, most cases of acquired heart block need treatment whether there are symptoms or not.

This will usually be in cases of:

• Mobitz type 2 second degree heart block
• third degree heart block

Due to the potentially serious nature of symptomatic heart block, you will usually be taken to the nearest hospital immediately.

Transcutaneous pacing (TCP)

Transcutaneous pacing (TCP) is the treatment of choice for symptomatic heart block. TCP is a way of restoring your normal heartbeat.

During TCP, pads will be applied to your chest. Electrical pulses will be delivered through the pads and these pulses will restore your heart rate.

TCP can feel uncomfortable so you may be sedated before the procedure begins. If you are sedated, you will be given medication to make you feel drowsy so you have little or no awareness of what is going on around you.

An alternative to TCP is temporary transvenous pacing (TTP) where a tiny wire is fed into the heart and linked to an external pacemaker to restore your heart beat. This is carried out under sedation.

Once your heartbeat has been stabilised, a permanent pacemaker may be recommended.

Pacemaker

A pacemaker is a small electrical device that generates tiny electrical signals which replace the function of your natural pacemaker. It is run by a small dry cell battery. Pacemaker sizes vary but most are around 2/3rd's the size of a credit card and 5mm thick.

The pacemaker is linked to up to 4 wires that are fed into your heart through one of the veins. It is placed in the appropriate part of the heart using an X-ray for guidance. 

Read about pacemaker insertion for detailed information about how pacemakers work and are fitted.