Dislodged Lead

My mom had surgery in May 2013 for a new pacemaker w/a defib... she fell a month ago (Oct) and has felt thumping in her heart. The heart surgeon discovered that when she fell (and it was a really bad fall, broke upper arm), one of the leads came out of place. She is scheduled for surgery on Monday 11/25 and they told her she would be released that night possibly... I'm just concerned because when she had the surgery in May, what was supposed to be a 2 hour surgery turned out to be 4 hours because the doctor had to add a third wire. They also told her at the last appointment that her heart was working at 25%, but from what I've researched on the internet, the usual percentage was 50.... so 25% can't be horrible, right?

Has anyone had surgery to reposition the lead? And was it very risky?

I hate not being able to go to her appointments with her, but due to work issues, I can't... so I'm relying on my parents to give me the info and sometimes they can't remember all that is said.

Any info would be much appreciated!!

1 Comments

You need an advocate

by Theknotguy - 2013-11-19 08:11:20

I had the same problem with my step-mom. Everything she said was looney tunes and scrambled eggs. We had an argument that went on for years about her "blood pressure medicine". I finally had to call the State and get them to intervene as she was in danger of immediate death.

I finally had a show down and got medical power of attorney. Found out her "blood pressure medicine" was a heart regulator drug.

She got better care after I was able to be an advocate and keep track of what was going on. I didn't have it as bad as Angry Sparrow above, but you do need an advocate for your parents.

Being in the sandwich generation isn't any fun I know. But if you are an advocate and keep track of what is going on you'll sleep better at night knowing they're getting the best care possible.

Hope this helps.

Theknotguy

You know you're wired when...

You participate in the Pacer Olympics.

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I, too, am feeling tons better since my implant.