ICD - DVLA rules says LV EF >35?

[Efka]

Implantable defibrillator ICD and DVLA - the driving regulations says the LV EF must be over 35? Is this right?

So if you get a 1 month ban say if the ICD does pacing do you then need to prove an EF above 35? If so how? Will the cardio order an echocardiogram?

The cardio sort of brushed off our concerns about being ‘stranded’ with a “oh it’s only a month unless it’s a cardiac arrest situation in which case it can be up to a 6 month ban”.

Driving is incredibly important to us and will play part in the decision process on if to have an ICD or not.

I’m just concerned that if the current EF is lower than 35 then how does one get the all clear to drive post an ICD being implanted?

Sorry if that’s a bit muddled!

Thanks

[Cherrelleford]

Hey I have an ICD, had it 2 years now. I had it fitted as a preventive measure. My EF is 15% but I still drive. I did stop for the month as required and sent the hospital letter that they give you to DVLA. I have not had anything off the DVLA other than the odd letter to ask if my device has shocked me. My GP and cardiologist have cleared me to drive. I just don't get behind the wheel if having a bad day with symptoms like dizziness etc. This is my experience hope this helps x

[Efka in reply to Cherrelleford]

Thank you very much for sharing. And it’s great to hear you are still driving! And that all you needed was a letter from the doctor. Hmm it just read so strangely on the DVLA website about “all these conditions must be met. And I hope your ICD implant has been troublefree and you are keeping well. Thanks again x

[Cherrelleford in reply to Efka]

The doctor's and nurses are great when it comes to information like that. Any concerns just ask your heart team. My ICD has been a god send. No shocks thankfully but I do feel it pace and it has picked up a dangerous rythym which I will be having an operation for. But I'm happy I've got it. I carry on as normal, well as normal as I can. The month of not driving goes pretty fast as 2 weeks of that is recovery anyway so you won't want to do much anyway. Wishing you all the best x

[Efka in reply to Cherrelleford]

Bless you thank you for that! Most reassuring to hear. And yes the first month will be alright it was any following “bans” that really worried me or not being allowed due to the EF.

Of course I understand if it shocks, just as with a cardiac arrest, there would be a 6 month ban.

Incredible to hear your ICD is doing such great work with pacing and helping your heart - they do seem remarkable pieces of machinery.

All the best to you too x

[Drof]

hi, I understand your concern because i might have to consider an icd in the near future with my ef now down to 28 from 35 even on top dose entresto as well as having AF. Without the car my life will be as good as over, very worrying times. Hopefully some other people will see this thread and reply about the driving thing.

[Efka in reply to Drof]

I completely understand about the driving! It’s comforting to hear above all that was needed was the doctors letter so fingers crossed, I will inquire further also and whatever I find out I’ll share here too. Thanks!

[Lowerfield_no_more]

I suggest you go talk to your GP with your concerns.

[Efka in reply to Lowerfield_no_more]

Thank you, I’ll try it’s not easy to even get a phone call sadly.