I have 5 pacer leads implanted. 3 Abandoned, 2 in use. I'm told that there is no more room for new leads and one is beginning to fail. I'm faced with potential attempt to extract old leads which is possible but very invasive and dangerous. Doctor proposes to install a very small "MICRO" pacer directly into my heart. This will continue to function as the previous pulse generators have but since it is within my heart it cannot be extracted later.
I'm interested in hearing from or about people who live with pace maker leads for many years (25+). Did any problems ever develop solely due to the leads ? i.e.: Infections, etc.
Also, anyone's experience with pacer lead extraction ? How long had the lead been implanted ?