Lead Failure

I have a pacemaker (biotronik with philos II DR leads). I was told I have a possible lead facture. They have tried 2 reprogramings and the 2nd doesn't seem like it is working. They want to add another set of wires. I'm a very active 42 year old mom of twins...I cannot have another wire malfunction. I've had cardiomyopathy, heart failure and suffered bradycardia (resting bpm 39) 6 years post diagnosis. Has anyone had something like this? What risks are involved if they add another set of wires and those break, what is next. Please let me know your thoughts.

2 Comments

it happens

by Tracey_E - 2009-09-13 07:09:18

Theoretically leads should last forever but in reality they do not. Most people who have been paced for a while eventually end up with new leads, some more than once. If you're getting symptoms back, it sounds like the lead is bad and they are unable to fix it with progamming.

I've had a bad lead for 6 or 7 years now and they programmed around it. It's still working but they had to crank up the voltage to get the signal through so I don't have symptoms but it drains the battery. I chose to keep it when I had my last replacement but it's gotten worse since then, not to mention I've only had this one for 3 yrs and it's already about dead, so I will replace the bad lead next time.

Do you need both leads replaced? Often only one is bad so that's the one they replace. It would be odd for both to go at the same time.

There are two ways they can go. The vein will hold 3-4 leads, so most doctors will try first to put a new lead on top of the old ones, cap off the old ones and leave them there. Some doctors prefer to extract what's there and start fresh. When you reach the point that you can't fit anymore, then they have to extract.

How old are your twins? I'm 43, my girls are 11 and 12. I don't sit still much either! :o) I'm hoping I can get my replacement done over spring break so I'm not out of commission when the kids have a full schedule.

Roy H

by roy haycock - 2009-09-14 09:09:45

Three years ago I was experiencing some unusual pain when lying on my left side. I then blacked out on two occasions,one whilst driving, and investigation found that I had a broken lead which was giving intermittent signals.
.My consultant removed the damaged lead and replaced it with two new leads, thus leaving one of the old ones behind ,but disconnected from the ICD (pacemaker with defib'), so I have had three in place for three years without any adverse effect.
I am 70 ,so no spring chicken, and live a normal life.
So do not worry, all will be well if you have a good surgeon.
Best wishes,
Roy

You know you're wired when...

You can finally prove that you have a heart.

Member Quotes

The experience of having a couple of lengths of wire fed into your heart muscle and an electronic 'box' tucked under the skin is not an insignificant event, but you will survive.