Third Lead

I have had a PM for over 18 years and 100% dependant. I have struggled with a-fib on and off over the years and have had 6 ablations, 4 cardio versions, and taken many anti arrythmic drugs. Right now, after my last ablation in August, I am in sinus rythmn. Currently I am not on any drugs at all and
I am feeling good. I am jogging, slowly (5mph on a treadmill), about 20 miles a week. Things are look up for this 63 year old.

The reason I am writing is to ask if anyone out there has three leads coming out of their pacer. My doctor said everything is looking good except for my ejection fraction. At the last check it was 37. I am due for a new PM soon (4th) and he told me that in order to boost my EF a third lead could help. He said it would help sync the right and left ventricles and my EF would be improved. He also added it does not help everyone. I am wondering if it is really necessary since I feel good. I am looking for any information good/bad that you might have. Thanks, dsgatti

2 Comments

EF

by Tracey_E - 2013-01-07 04:01:21

Yes, a third lead can synchronize the ventricles and therefore increase EF. Many members have had upgraded to them and feel better. A much smaller number haven't benefited and don't feel an appreciable difference. The downsides are running the third lead and a shorter battery life.

37 is low but not horrible, and you feel good. I'd put it off until I had some symptoms, but that's just me. Technology makes big strides every year it seems, and I plan to be paced for a lot of years to come, so my response to most everything is stall until it's necessary or at least a strong benefit.

3 Leads

by Many Blessings - 2013-01-07 11:01:52

I have three leads. I have a CRT-P with an AV Node ablation. I had to wait until my EF was below 30 before they would consider doing the AV Node ablation. I feel better, but if I were you, I'd wait until you feel like total "you know what" before you do it. And, that's coming from experience.

It's not a perfect procedure, with a no where near perfect outcome. I'm grateful to be here and feeling better for the most part (my EF is back up to 45-50!) I'm still in A-fib, but at a controlled rate now. If I had it to do over again, I wouldn't do it to tell you the truth. That's just me, but for whatever it's worth, I'd hold out until you can't wait any longer.

Good Luck!

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