Right Lead Placement - Apex vs Septum

Hi everyone -
I'm getting close to deciding on a Dr for my PM. One of the biggest differences between 2 of the Dr's is where they put the right lead...

Dr. A would put it at or near the septum - saying this location is closer to the natural conduction of the heart, and may help prevent heart failure on the left side -due to long-term right side only pacing

Dr. B would put it at the apex- this seems to be "the standard" as far as where most Dr's place it

Is there anyone out there who has their lead placed at the septum?

Any advice about this, research or experience?

I'm young - 42 - so this is going to be in me a long time- want to make the most informed decision...

Thank you so much for your time and help...


3 Comments

Lead Placement - Apex vs Septum

by lisabfit - 2015-01-18 09:01:29

Any input on this? I posted a couple days ago about this topic- please comment if you have any information or advice...thank you!

ask Inga

by Tracey_E - 2015-01-19 08:01:52

I know that bypassing the bundle of His is considered preferable and the standard for placing it is changing, that's the extent of my knowledge on lead placement! Inga (golden-snitch) is knowledgeable on it. I haven't seen her online in the last week or so, maybe send her a private message.

eprn

by eprn - 2015-01-20 10:01:08

The best place for a V lead is on the septum,minimizing the risk of long term pacing of the ventricle. Very long term pacing of the ventricle from the apex can cause problems with heart failure. The apex is the easy place to put the lead and many MDs put it there. It takes extra effort and time to place it on the septum. If it was me, I would ask that the doc place it on the septum if possible.

You know you're wired when...

Your old device becomes a paper weight for your desk.

Member Quotes

A pacemaker completely solved my problem. In fact, it was implanted just 7 weeks ago and I ran a race today, placed first in my age group.