Replacement pacemaker lead

[Moweeda]

Hi, I’ve only had my CRT-D since Nov 2020 and already my defibrillator lead has malfunctioned and is going to be taken out and replaced. Has anyone been through or know of someone who has been through this procedure? Is the recovery time similar to that of having a pacemaker put in? I’m a teacher and wondering when I could go back into work. I also run and would like to know how long I should leave it before exercising again. And finally, is it another month off driving?

thanks all.

[Tigger_2]

I am a pacemaker patient but haven't had to have leads replaced after 18-years.

However, I have heard that it is much more difficult than the insertion, to the point that some leads will be left in place rather than remove them.

Again, good hearsay reports that it needs to be done by someone who specialises in removal.

I'm guessing, but I would suggest that it will take longer than the insertion.

If you get the chance ask them about the risks.

Recovery is going to be at least as long as for insertion.

A month off driving seems like a long time, but again, ask.

[Hidden]

Hi, I had the misfortune of the lead coming detached following valve surgery.

Silly me thought it would a simple case of reconnecting, but no, the lead had to be removed and a new one inserted. Basically, the same op, but, it took longer than the original PM insertion. I can't really say much on recovery times and driving, but, nothing springs to mind that it was any different. I was already in hospital on both occasions for OHS and more concerned with the main surgery. Wound healed well.

[Baileysandra in reply to Hidden]

Hi just read your reply I am having a lead repositioned this Friday feeling quite anxious so did your op go smoothly and how long did you have to stay in hospital for have you had your pm for long x

[Hidden in reply to Baileysandra]

Hi, I've had my pm for coming up 10 years, without any real issues. I'm now on a 6month review and at the point where a decision needs to be made what they do next, change the batteries or fit a CRT. I'm hoping for the former.

My recollection is is that the original pm insertion and lead replacement both went smoothly enough, although I was already in hospital having just had valve surgery in both instances. I'd had complications from the main surgery which led to needing the pm so I was kept in for a few more days after each until they were happy for me to be discharged.