Traditional vs Ceramic PMs

Hey gang, was listening to an interesting debate today between two cardiologists on (Medtronic) traditional and MRI compatible PMs. The "nay" was arguing against ceramic basically saying that there are still a lot of bugs to iron out, specifically citing issues with leads (too stiff and other issues?). The "yay" said those "lead" issues were resolved about "four months ago" and no longer posed any kind of a problem. "Yay" said ceramic is for younger people who may encounter knee/hip etc. problems before the expiry of their current PM and therefore may require an MRI. "Nay" said the risk of something going wrong wasn't worth it, adding one should wait a couple years till the ceramic is really tested. So, where does that leave the recipient? Thoughts?

3 Comments

The Revo has been tested

by Rommom - 2013-03-18 10:03:29

I have a MRI compatible PM implanted a year ago. The Revo has been tested and I have had an MRI with it. I was so glad my cardiologist told me that I am younger and may need a MRI in my future and implanted the REvo Surescan PM. Every doctor has their opinion. I work with doctors and everyone has different opinions. Talk to your doctor and dialogue with him/her.

Thanks ANGRYSPARROW

by ElectricFrank - 2013-03-19 01:03:59

I'm glad to not be the only one pointing out some of the medical scams. The discouraging part of the whole thing is that all it takes is a reassuring comment by "your doctor" who often has less information than we do, and most patients will accept the newest and latest.

I sometimes think we are more to blame than the drug or device manufacturer. As long as the patient population accepts it I guess the manufacturer is just doing it job sell it.

frank

Oversimplifications/Overgeneralizations

by Yakkwak - 2013-03-20 02:03:53

Will restrict my responses to just the targeted population. In addition to younger patients, the MRI-compatible is also intended for the not so young with chronic diseases that benefit from MRI scans. I'm one of those. Before the Revo, I could not have a scan (that was really needed). I've since had three necessary scans. I also don't tend to trust the scan techs. I go to a place where I know the credentials of the crew, the neuroradiologist, and the Medtronic tech who is on-hand to check programming. I also have to have a second tech from the company there to monitor another implanted device I have. It is a lot of hoopla for a simple scan. One of these scans has significantly contributed to intervention to prevent paralysis. I, for one, would make the same defision for the Surescan any day and will take the other potential risks over that problem any day. Blessings!

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