Pacemaker Lead Extraction

[Crt-dman]

I have a CRT-D device and have recently been informed that the lead going to my right atrium has fractured and needs extracted and replaced. Has anyone else had a lead extracted? Were there any complications and how long did recovery take?

[edplayer]

Sorry to hear this. I'm afraid I don't know the answer to your questions but will be watching replies with interest. May I ask how long has the lead been in place before it failed?

[Crt-dman in reply to edplayer]

Hi. The lead has been implanted over 10 years. I'm 34 now. Got my original pacemaker when I was 23.

[PrueSarn]

I had a CRDT fitted in Jan and immediately afterwards an odd kicking sensation which turned out to be a lead slipping and detached. So a week later they did me again! Of course, you have to have the old lead taken out, you said, which is different. However, for what it's worth, for me it was actually a much easier experience than the original fitting, obviously not that much healing had happened with incision, but the whole box felt better when they had done (it felt so big!)and I felt nothing while they reattached the lead. I found the original box " placement" the most uncomfortable thing, and with your box already being bedded in, I wouldn't think it would be too bad! Just my experience, I hope it goes well for you.

[Crt-dman in reply to PrueSarn]

Thanks for the reply. Yes when I first got my CRTd implanted I found it was extremely uncomfortable. I had previously had a pacemaker for 8 years or so.

[Emzyfred1419]

I had a double lead extraction earlier this week of two leads. Two older leads have been left in , as it was too risky to try and remove them. This was done as my pacemaker was changed to a CRT-D and there was not enough room for all the leads needed. It was scary but all seems to have gone well and I am now recovering at home.

[Crt-dman in reply to Emzyfred1419]

Thank you for the reply. My original pacemaker was implanted November 2010. Unfortunately it is one of the original leads that has fractured and now needs replaced. I have a redundant lead going to my right ventricle and the consultant said it would be too risky to remove it. He said it is a risky procedure so I am of course worried. I'm 34 and a very active person so I am dreading it.