Mother hf 15 per cent

My mom has ICD/PM but for the pass 6 years and three attempts to replace one of the leads - there are still in the vein.  A total of 3 wires.  Her heart fraction has dropped from 55 last July to now 15.  She just came home from the hosiptal after three weeks of chf - and rehab.  To remove the leads are too risky.  There has been some talk about trying to connect the wire through another vein.  Just wondering if anyone has any knowledge of this?


3 Comments

Alternatives

by Good Dog - 2016-06-12 20:32:09

I have to think that there are alternatives for your Mom. I can't believe that they haven't offered them to you! I would first insure that she is getting help from the best cardiac Doc/hospital around. You didn't post much info about her care. It is possible to have more than 3 leads. In her situation it sounds like she could use a CRT (Biventricular Pacemaker/Cardiac resynchronization therapy) implanted which is a common therapy for HF. The docs can find ways to get the leads to her heart including a Epicardial leads (leads attached on the outside of her heart).

I don't know enough to offer much help here, but I would insure that she is getting the best care available. You should do some research to try to determine that. 

replacing leads

by kaykenneth - 2016-06-13 15:53:16

She does have the CRT that is set at pacing her heart 60.  Last we spoke to the heart doctors they felt that attaching the leads on the outside of her heart was too risky.  We have taken her to many specilist and received second opinions.  We have been to UVA in Charlottesville and  MCV - now know as VCU in Richmond, va. 

 

More

by Cabg Patch - 2016-06-14 16:05:49

There must be more to the story than meets the eye. Either you aren't getting the whole story or haven't shared critical pieces. I just had 3 leads extracted after nearly 10 years and no problem getting them out.

Additionally, placing leads subcutaneous (on the outside of the heart) is even less invasive. It is interesting and troubling that her EF went from normal to critical in such a short period.

May I suggest you ask the doctors to sit down and explain everything to you in laymen terms so you get a picture of what the obstacles ahead of her are.

 

Good luck

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