Advice required about lead extraction ops please

[Frequentshocker]

I have been offered an invasive option as we've exhausted most options of medications. I seem to have settled best on Quinedine now after several allergies to other meds. Unfortunately though, I had another defibrillator shock recently after nearly 2 years witjout any. As I still get almost daily AFs that can quickly go into VFs, my consultant suggested an op to remove the pacemaker lead from my defibrillator and implant a 2 lead pacemaker alongside my defibrillator. It was rather a shock to be offered this and have to decide on the spot. I decided to wait until I have another shock at some stage and then go for it but having read about the procedure I am concerned. I know fitting pacemaker is easier and that doesnt worry me. What worries me is the risk factor as it appears quite an intensive operation to remove and repair any damage. Also will the pacemaker regulate my heart sufficiently to get me off the meds? Either way, will it eliminate all the AFs and VFs totally? And would the pacemaker be inserted on the opp collarbone to my defibrillator? I asked a lot of questions but not all until I thought it over later. Ive googled the procedure and it seems a complicated effort to remove a lead fron the heart. Should I be concerned about this op? Is there any alternative method to regulate my heart before considering this method? I forgot to ask some importabt questions and those I did ask got fairly vague replies, ie all carry a risk. Has anyone had this procedure done and how did it go? Any advice would be welcome thank you.

[BobD Volunteer]

Prabably above most of our pay grades as they say. Have you asked this in BHF forum? May be more experience there.

Pacemakers alone will not stop AF but pace and ablate where the AV node is ablated may help symptoms.

[Frequentshocker in reply to BobD]

Thank you for your reply, thats helpful to know. I will put it on the forum too. I did wonder if it will prevent the AFs but my cardiologist said no guarantees and re surgery it all comes with risk. Not much help when suddenly put to you and you have to make the decision on the spot! I opted for the wait and see to give me more time to do some research. I can change my mind unless they totally recommend it but she wasnt pushing either way, just said its ny decision and if yes but wait til another shock she said itll be on record that weve had this discussion and know whats involved, ready to proceed with the op. Im just really concerned that the risk of the op may be far worse than the risk of it not succeeding in preventing the arrhythmias that cause the defibrillator shocks. I will see what my results of my echocardiogram shows first too, just had that yesterday. Thank you.

[baba in reply to Frequentshocker]

I think you need more discussion with your cardiologist after you have had time to do research and consider.

Best wishes.