The spelling of "artificial pacemaker" is determined by its phonetic transcription: ɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl ˈpeɪsmeɪkə. "Artificial" is spelled with an "i" after the "t" due to its pronunciation ɑːtɪˈfɪʃəl. "Pacemaker" is spelled with an "e" after the "a" due to its pronunciation ˈpeɪsmeɪkə. This medical device is a small electronic device that sends electrical impulses to the heart muscle to maintain a suitable heart rate and rhythm. Its spelling and pronunciation are important to properly identify and discuss this life-saving invention.
An artificial pacemaker is a medical device designed to regulate or control the pace of the heart and ensure its regular beating. It is a small electronic device that is surgically implanted in the body, most commonly in the chest area, and helps to correct irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) or heart rates that are too slow (bradycardia).
The device consists of two main components: a generator and one or more leads. The generator is a small metal case that contains a battery and electrical circuits. The leads are insulated wires that connect the generator to the heart, transmitting electrical signals between the two.
The artificial pacemaker works by emitting electrical signals to stimulate the heart muscles and initiate contractions, thus maintaining a regular heart rate. It monitors the heart's natural electrical activity and, when necessary, sends out electrical impulses to give it a boost or correct a disturbance.
Artificial pacemakers can be programmed according to the specific needs of each patient and can adjust the heart rate based on the individual's level of physical activity. They are used in cases where the heart's natural pacemaker, the sinoatrial node, fails to function properly or becomes blocked, leading to bradycardia or arrhythmias.
Artificial pacemakers have greatly improved the quality of life for many individuals with heart conditions. They have become safer, smaller, and more efficient over time, allowing patients to resume normal activities and lead relatively normal lives.
The word "artificial pacemaker" can be broken down into two parts:
1. "Artificial": The term "artificial" originates from the Latin word "artificialis", which means "made by art" or "created by human skill". It is derived from the Latin words "artificium" meaning "art" or "craft", and "facere" meaning "to make". In this context, "artificial" refers to something that is man-made or created.
2. "Pacemaker": The term "pacemaker" comes from the noun "pace" and the suffix "-maker". "Pace" appears to have originated from the Latin word "pax" meaning "peace" or "tranquility". Eventually, it came to refer to an individual's rate or rhythm of walking, specifically the time between steps.