The first indication

Going to HCA UK New Broad Street Medical Centre, Tod underwent the routine checks including weight, height, blood tests and blood pressure, which came back a little high.

“I went for a general MOT as I’m nearly 60 and previously had my last health check at 50. Nothing seemed up or out of the ordinary to be honest. I exercise a lot, and am lucky enough to enjoy regular long walks, as well as sail, both of which require considerable physical exertion! I have also played a lot of tennis in my time, but for some reason, I thought it was a good idea and time to get checked out and taken advantage of one of my company benefits.”

It was a good job he did.

Following an ECG, bradycardia and a minor problem with conduction of electrical signals from the top to the bottom of the heart was detected - a condition where the heart beats slower than 60 beats a minute. It was clear that further intervention and onward care would be needed. A referral to a consultant cardiologist - Dr Ravi Kamdar – was made given his expertise with arrhythmia and cardiac rhythm management. 

Being out of rhythm

Being assessed by Dr Kamdar at HCA UK’s London Bridge Hospital, it was suggested that Tod wear a device for a week – a Holter monitor - so that his heart rate and rhythm could be recorded over a prolonged (seven-day) period. This identified an incredibly low heart rate with pauses of up to nine seconds, as well as a concerning rhythm at night when sleeping.

“I had had no symptoms to indicate that anything was wrong at this point. No dizziness, no fainting etc. Dr Kamdar indicated that my very slow heart rate, and especially the type of rhythm that I had was worrying - it could lead to a cardiac arrest.”

Tod’s case was discussed at an HCA UK multidisciplinary meeting with numerous arrhythmia specialists, and the consensus was that he should be offered a pacemaker.

Changing up the pace

In the meantime, Tod was also found to have high blood pressure and was put on medication to lower and control this. And in November 2024, he had a novel conduction system dual-chamber pacemaker (CSP) implanted at London Bridge Hospital.

CSP is an advanced technique designed to closely replicate the heart's natural electrical pathways. Unlike a traditional pacemaker that stimulates the heart muscle, most commonly the right ventricle, CSP directly targets the heart’s own electrical conduction tissue within the heart. This results in a more natural dispersion of electrical signals through the heart, which in turn results in a better, more synchronised heart rhythm than is seen with traditional pacemakers. CSP also improves the likelihood of heart failure (pacemaker-induced cardiomyopathy) that can be seen in 10-15% of patients after traditional pacemakers.

Tod’s experience at London Bridge Hospital was second to none. 

We wish Tod continued wellness following his procedure. If you or a loved one are looking for reassurance and want a heart health check, it’s never been simpler to arrange. Click here for further information.