Pacemaker replacement 2/21/12

Hi, I discovered this site and joined on 1/26/12. I am having pacemaker replacement surgery on 2/21. I was told it will be outpatient, I will be in the hospital a few hours and I can go home. The last time I had my pacemaker replaced, which was 1/04, I was in hospital six hours. I forgot, how soon can I get back to my normal activities, such as driving? I live alone & shop for food, go to a laundromat, and so on, but I know I have to be careful for some time. Just want to sort things out before this third surgery. My original pacemaker implantation was Sept. 1991. I am pleased to have found this site and I hope to receive some feedback and perhaps make new friends. I'm 64 and young at heart, no pun intended. My daughter lives 2,000 miles from me and I'm divorced 14 years from her father, so my nephew will drive me to hospital & take me home. Thanks!

2 Comments

from a friend

by rvrs708175 - 2012-01-26 09:01:14

Since I joined this elite group, I feel they are all friends, all so helpful. for fun, try the jokes section. I am a bit older (76) but am still married and we just travel in our rv all over this country. I often give lectures to potential writers on how to get into the business. I myself have written 5 books and many many magazine articles. I only have had the one pacemaker three years ago. feeling fine, except for a few age related problems. My best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Ann

Replacement experience

by ElectricFrank - 2012-01-26 11:01:58

Your description of your last replacement is a lot like mine. Mine was done as an outpatient, and I think my total time in the hospital was around 5-6 hours. Some of it was due to a delay in the OR schedule. Also, my cardio likes to do an antibiotic drip before and then again after the procedure. He has an excellent record on not having infection problems, likely due to this.

A lot of the restrictions on activity associated with the original implant isn't necessary with a replacement unless there is a lead problem. At least for me I just used the pain reminder to let me know if I was pushing it too much. I also live alone and had no problem handling things.

Something that is helpful for a few nights after the surgery is to sleep with a pillow in front of you. Sleep on the side opposite the pacer and use the pillow to support the upper arm. This keeps from squeezing the incision during sleep. I used the wit both my original implant and replacement. Neither time did I need an pain meds and slept well from the beginning.

best wishes,

frank

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