Mammogram with ICD

[HartMiracle]

I had a cardiac arrest in May which resulted in me having an ICD fitted. I'm due to have my annual mammogram for post cancer check & I'm worried about the impact on the ICD. Have read some horror stories whilst medical professionals I have asked say it should be ok as long as the radiologist is aware. Has anyone else been in the same situation?

[Whiteghost]

Firstly I do not have an ICD, but My work colleague does. She has a mammogram with no problems. She does tell them about her medical history, as I do as I've got stents. 🤗

[Oatybiscuits]

You should contact your ICD after care team and ask them for the correct information regarding mammograms and ICD.

You can also contact the mammogram team directly and explain your situation and concerns in advance

My husband has an ICD and has had a few random questions needed for tests which were not covered in his ICD booklet- he just contacts his remote ICD support team and asks

Hope you get the correct answers and reassurance you need

[ScoobyDoo71]

hi, I’ve got a pacemaker in and had mammogram last year. I called the department prior to appointment as the letter requested this if any cardiac device in situ.

It all went fine, I was worried in case the procedure moved the pacemaker or was painful but it went fine and no issues.

Hope yours goes well

[StayStrongOver60]

When I went for my mammogram after an ICD fitted they were brilliant and made a few small adjustments. They recommended that I should call ahead though and inform them as they may need to ensure you see the correctly trained operative and I think machine? Can’t quite remember but I’d give them a call anyway if I were you. It took a little longer than normal but they were wonderful. All the best.

[Pouchielou1972]

I had my first mammogram last year with my ICD. I advised them beforehand and they advised it was fine to go ahead, they just were cautious and didn't squeeze to tight with the machine on the side of the ICD. The operative did advise at the time they the results may come back with a partial view on that side of the breast though, because the ICD is blocking it and this was the case. But other than that, no issues at all for me or pain.

[Alison_L]

Hi HM. Yes, I have an ICD and have had 2 mammograms since with no problems. Just let the radiographer know when you arrive for the appointment and they will make sure it’s ok. Ask to have a look at the picture afterwards - it’s fascinating seeing the ICD in situ!

[HartMiracle in reply to Alison_L]

Thank you all so much for your replies. I am feeling less anxious now.

[Thanksnhs]

Hi I had a couple of mammogram's when I had my ICD, I phoned ahead to let them know and I spoke to them when I got there, everything went well they were very careful when they done the left side. Char

[polenta]

I haven't had any problems getting a Mammogram with my inplant, just let them know so they can be a little careful around that area with the pressure. I get a little sore sometimes after, but nothing too bad.

[Deejay62]

Hi I’ve had a pacemaker for 8 yrs then an upgrade for 6yrs during that time I’ve had many mammograms. I’ve always told them I’ve got one fitted and it’s never been a problem. They usually work around it. The last one I had last year she turned off the automatic system and used the manual system she told me, because it would be easier for her to work around it.

I’ve had a new person before who asked for instructions before they started, to make sure they’re doing the right thing, and I’ve had one who called on someone else to do it because they wasn’t sure of how to do it.

[Pjjmhaa]

I had my mammogram gram done last year! I was ill at the thought but the lady was brilliant caused me no stress as she 100% knew what she was doing! Try not to worry and remember to tell her as soon as as you go in! 👍🏻 goodluck