Pacemaker infection forces removal.

[Bigdan]

What a balls-up! 6 week post op and have just had pacemaker removed yesterday because of infection concerns.

Wound hadn't healed and stitches were visible below scab. Tests showed no infection from swab/blood/echo tests but doc wasn't happy with it so as a precaution leads and device have been taken out.

Plan is to let the wound heal and pop a new one in on right side of chest, hopefully in a month or so. Fortunately have been allowed home until then.

Gutted as was just getting back to normal.

Anyone else had this problem? Apparently its quite uncommon.

Its a dual chamber SJM device.

Regards, Dan.

[Hidden]

I ended up with Sepsis because of an infected Pacemaker lead - dont take chances.

[Bigdan in reply to Hidden]

That was the worry, I thought it was a bit of an over the top solution but the doc and colleagues in another hospital agreed and were unwilling to take that chance. Easier to whip it out after just 6week and try again.

Did yours come out then ogilvie?

Thanks for the reply.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

In my case it got messy. I was PM dependant so they couldn't just remove it. The Sepsis was attacking other organs (liver and Kidneys). In the end I had open heart surgery to remove the infected lead and fit a new PM at the same time. That was 2 years ago.

[Bigdan in reply to Hidden]

Goodness,

I guess that's what they're trying to avoid with me then.

I was gutted at the time due to the timescale involved, adding an extra 10 weeks recovery just to get back to the stage I was at before but its worth the wait to get it done right next time? Hopefully..

They're gonna pop it in on the right side of chest next time.

Regards,

Dan.

[Hidden in reply to Bigdan]

If you start to develop flu like symptoms - shivers, vomiting, high temperature - get yourself to A&E ASAP.

I found that getting fixed is a slow process - very frustrating.

[Bigdan in reply to Hidden]

Ok will do. Thanks.

Fortunately I've been allowed home to heal rather than stay in which is a huge relief. 1 week was enough.

I wasn't PM dependant, it had been working 30% of the time, so I guess I'll just have to live with the symptoms again until after the next implant.

[Kimkat in reply to Bigdan]

So did they remove the leads?

[Bigdan in reply to Kimkat]

Yeah, everything that went has come out. Seeing as its only been 6week it was easier to whip out now, while there was little scar tissue around the implant, rather than fight infection with the risk of what has happened to ogilvie I guess,.

[Kimkat in reply to Bigdan]

Just goes to show how long the leads take to ‘bed in’ obviously a lot longer than they tell you. Good luck with the next op.

[Hidden in reply to Kimkat]

The main problem was the lead embedded in the meat of my heart. It was infected and generating"bugs" but the antibiotics couldn't reach it in sufficient quantities to kill the "bugs". Getting it cut out was the only choice - not pleasant.

[Kimkat in reply to Hidden]

Wow not pleasant at all by the sound of it but pleased everything’s ok now.

[SpiritoftheFloyd]

Sorry to hear that. It must be devastating to have to go back to first base and have to start all over again, but I guess when the threat of Sepsis pops up it's probably the only option they have, better save than sorry etc.

Best wishes that round 2 goes OK.

[kefalonia1]

Hi, l had an infection when they fitted my first pacemaker in my chest. They removed it and put a new one in my abdomen below the left side of my ribs with the wires running up to my heart three years ago. lt is great, no lumps, and l don't even know its there, maybe you could ask for one, l have been told there is less risk of infection in that position. Take care, Sue.

[Bigdan in reply to kefalonia1]

Ahh, that sounds encouraging. I've got a check in a couple of weeks to make sure the removal operation site is healing and with no infection. so will ask about that position. They are planning upper right of chest this next time but I think it could be more protected in your position.

I don't have much depth to play with and often use backpacks at work and in free time and thought it might rub anyway.

Thanks for the happy ending story!

Regards,

Dan.

[kefalonia1]

Hi Dan, the official name is EPICARDIAL lMPLANTATION. bear in mind l nearly died of severe Sepsis and Endocarditis so my Consultant wanted my second Pacemaker in the least likely infection zone. Sepsis destroyed my healthy heart that's why l have a AVR, and pacemaker for total heart block. lt has been a happy ending for me thankfully and l'm sure it will be for you. From what you are saying it sounds the perfect site for you, make sure you explain (assertively) your sensible reasons so you can live long and prosper! Take care, Sue.