The battery usually lasts 5-7 years depending on how much the pacemaker is used. replacement of the battery is a simple outpatient procedure. 6) I'm not sure what you mean about the next step after pacemakers. There are no alternative therapies presently for rhythm disorders that require pacemakers.
Herniated disk. Back surgery might be an option if conservative treatments haven't worked and your pain is persistent and disabling. Back surgery often more predictably relieves associated pain or numbness that goes down one or both arms or legs. These symptoms often are caused by compressed nerves in your spine. Nerves may become compressed for a variety of reasons, including: 1  Disk problems.
A hernia that cannot be pushed back can be repaired when surgery is convenient unless you have increased pain, redness of the overlying skin, fever, nausea and vomiting, or abdominal bloating. If any of these symptoms occur, the hernia may need to be fixed sooner.