Pacemaker or ICD before surgery or dental treatment

Tell the team when you book

Leeds Teaching Hospitals advises patients with pacemakers to tell doctors, dentists and surgeons about the device because some procedures need precautions. Mention the implant when you book, even if the treatment is at a different hospital or a dental practice.

If you are unsure whether your device is a pacemaker, ICD or another system, share the card and ask your device clinic to confirm it. Do not select a device type just because it sounds familiar.

Information to have ready

• The current implant card or device report.
• The recorded device type, manufacturer and model.
• Any component or lead information shown in your record.
• The clinic that follows your device and its usual contact details.
• Any previous procedure-specific instructions, clearly labelled with their date.

An old treatment plan may not apply to a new procedure. Ask the receiving team what current information they require.

Questions for the appointment team

• Have you received my device information?
• Do you need to contact my device clinic before treatment?
• Are any device checks needed before or after the procedure?
• Who will give me the final instructions?

Your passport cannot programme, switch off or assess a cardiac device. Device settings and any procedural changes must be managed by the clinical team.

If the details are missing

Tell the treating team what you know and give them your clinic contact. Follow our lost card steps to request a replacement. Do not guess the model or postpone urgent care while searching for it.

For a planned MRI or radiotherapy course, use the separate guides below so you can ask the right team for its information requirements.