Function of third lead

• by swatithorve
• 2017-01-01 22:28:56
• General Posting
• 967 views
• 1 comments

Hi All,

I am posting for my dad. He is 60 years old. Had a pacemaker (ICD)surgery in March 2016. His Ejection Fraction was dropped to 10-15%, thats why doctor suggested to get a pacemaker installed. After having pacemaker for 6 months, when his Ejection Fraction was tested again, its just 25%.

I would like to provide few more details here. I would really appreciate your help in deciding whether what our cardiologist is doing is right.

Cardiologist said surgery will take 45 mins, but actual surgery took 6 hours! He said he had complications while placing third lead. He called other cardiologists during surgery and they were able to place the third lead, according to him. However during our recent visit to him (12/23/2016) he mentioned "third lead has some issues, there is no point in reoperating the patient". I was shocked by his statement and missed asking what problem is there exactly. I am going to ask him in next visit.

My questions is what is the use of third lead? What functionality my dad is missing by not having third lead? Just having 2 leads are enough for my dad? Currently my dad is suffering from short of breath after walk, or while doing minor chores. Also he is having headaches, arm pain. What all questions should I ask to cardiologist to get correct information about what is working and what is not working, and my dad's condition.

I am just worried about my dad's health, after spending soo much money, time, efforts and lot of mental stress. I would really appriciate your help.

Thank you very much for your help!

-Swati Thorve