Pacer replacement

Am approaching the time to replace my pacemaker for the first time. Need some honest answers about recovery. How long does it take before you feel ok? How long before you can drive? Any other restrictions? I'm trying to figure out when would be a good time to get it done but have two kids with multiple activities so have to weigh all options.
Thanks,
Lori

2 Comments

It can vary but usually is routine

by BillMFl - 2009-04-24 05:04:07

Assuming your existing leads are fine, the only concern is avoiding infection. They will load you up with some strong antibiotics and keeping the incision clean and dry is about all you have to do. Mine was pretty well healed in a week, and I drove my car the day after the procedure, but its probably better not to.

replacements

by Tracey_E - 2009-04-24 12:04:58

I'm a mom of crazy busy kids also and have had 3 replacements now. I try to do them in the summer when we're not running constantly and my mom can take the kids for a few days. It's not a big deal if it can't wait til summer, tho, I just try to if I can because it's less schedule juggling.

I've never been told I can't drive after a replacement, no other restrictions either other than keeping the incision dry. I usually sleep most of the first day, but that's mostly because I get mine done with a general anesthesia. I've never taken anything stronger than a Tylenol, the pain is not that bad. I'll sleep hugging a pillow for a week or two due to soreness.

If the first surgery was a 10 for inconvenience and pain, I'd say a replacement is about a 3 or 4. They go in the same place and use the same pocket so it's mostly just scar tissue, and unless you have a problem they won't replace your leads. Very easy!

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