Third Lead

Its now my first year anniversary of my Medtronic dual chamber pacemaker which paces 98 percent of the time. There is a diagreement between the cardiologist and the electrophysiologist who implanted the device. The cardiologist thinks I need a third lead inserted to better syncronize the chambers. The surgeon does not think this would help. Anyone have to go back to get an additional lead inserted?

4 Comments

There are at least...

by donr - 2012-07-20 11:07:00

...three members who have had this done.

They will probably pop up later tonight.

Don

Your opinion?

by ldebaugh - 2012-07-21 01:07:27

Hi Phyllis,
What do you think? Do you get out of breath a lot? Does your PM respond the way you want it to? Do you want this change, or is all great the way it is? Or are you on the fence?

Please keep us up to date on this. I suspect many of us will be looking at the same thing.
M'Liz

Whats the reason?

by Bill T - 2012-07-21 03:07:45

phyllisilie -- Why does the cardiologist think you need the 3rd lead, is it because of low EF?

My EF improved from the low 30s to the high 50s (almost normal) after my cardiologist & EP upgraded me to a CRT-D last a year ago May. The resynchronization of the lower chambers can make a lot of difference. I feel much better and stronger now.

Best to you, Bill T

Similar / Different Situation

by msolomita - 2012-07-28 04:07:28

My father was suffering through arrhythmia and low EF (<20) - so we our EP recommended we implant a CRT-D. During the procedure, 2 leads connected well - but the 3rd one did not, due to hearts anatomy. I was disappointed, as from my research and friend cardiologist - 3rd lead would have benefited the performance the most. Our EP insisted that we tune the medications to maximum levels (COREG etc) and it would be the best balance vs. going for another approach or attempt. I was not convinced, so we took a second opinion from a very senior EP-2 and he stated it was a no-brainer to go for 3rd lead, even if there is a slight risk of infection. Today we got the procedure completed and EP-2 was able to successfully implant the 3rd lead via coronary sinus. Its too early to see the results but we have follow-up with EP-2, next week to talk about recovery timelines and tests to measure it.

I have learnt it, if you are in double mind - please take a second opinion and research by yourself to find the right person to provide second opinion.

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