Happy new year!

[MDR1]

Happy new year everyone. Let's hope 2021 is better. I'm starting my new year with an ICD implant on the 4th and panic has set in now!

Love to all.

[lucielooloo]

Happy new year ! I’m getting mine fitted in feb and the panic has also set in, my anxiety levels are through the roof!!

[Ads568]

Hi MDR1 and Lucielooloo,

Happy and healthy new year!

I had a CRT-D (3 lead re-synchronisation therapy with defibrillator) and in my experience you needn't worry - it will all be over soon and you will wonder why you were panicking. I was awake with sedation, and the insertion of my implant was straightforward and painless. Some funny sensations, but no pain at all. The bruising afterwards was spectacular, and the scar from the procedure, like any scar, took a while to heal. But having the reassurance of an on-board paramedic is so worth it! I had to have several adjustments to mine over time due to the root of the problem which at that point was still undiagnosed.

I arrived for my procedure unable to walk due to breathlessness and being pushed in a wheelchair. Later that same day I walked to the bathroom unaided!

My advice would be to make sure you have front opening clothes (inc bras if female!) and do as you are told - ie, rest and don't lift anything or raise your arms above shoulder height.

Good luck, I'm sure you won't regret it!

Best wishes

[MDR1 in reply to Ads568]

Thank you so much for your reassuring reply. I am trying to be calm about it and I know I will still be panicky, but I also know it's for the best. Hope you're doing ok.

[RufusScamp]

I had a three-lead CRT fitted in November, chatting about music with the doc. I had the offered sedation, and there was no problem. A bit of bruising and soreness for a few days, and you do have to be careful for a few weeks, but it should help you almost immediately. I hope all goes well on the fourth.

[MDR1 in reply to RufusScamp]

Thank you for your kind wishes. I know it will help and as they keep telling me, it's like an insurance policy. Will post an update after the procedure.

[RufusScamp in reply to MDR1]

Do keep in touch. I'm sure you will be fine.

[MDR1 in reply to RufusScamp]

Hi RufusScampJust wondering - did you have some swelling around the area and did it feel warm? I had the procedure on Wednesday and have just removed the dressing. I noticed swelling and the skin is warmer than surrounding skin so I phoned the out of hours number they gave me. She wasn't very helpful, particularly compared to the lovely staff on Wednesday, and suggested I go to my local A&E.

[RufusScamp in reply to MDR1]

The site was quite sore for a few days, but I did not notice any swelling. After 4 days, there was only a bit of bruising visible. If it feels unusually warm, it would be wise to get it looked at, Probably not easy, as most medical services are under a certain amount of pressure at the moment.

Are you having home visits from the cardio team?

[MDR1 in reply to RufusScamp]

Thank you for your reply.No I've got to send them a photo of the site in 4 weeks but nothing before. I'm going to phone my cardiac nurse tomorrow as she is usually very helpful.