Lead Displacement

Hi, I had a dual chamber pacemaker implanted just over two weeks ago, was in a bit of pain to begin with but felt much better after the first week, with the exception of being able to feel the pacemaker pacing. I went back to the pacing clinic and they said all was ok. This feeling worsened to the point where I was getting painful electric shocks - went back to the clinic yesterday, had an X-ray and one of the leads has moved so I’ve got to have another operation next week to have it corrected. The consultant said there was nothing I/they could have done any differently, it’s just one of those things.

I’ve been having chest pains, vibration like feelings and a feeling of pressure in my chest today, however the consultant’s said there was no fluid around the heart and just to take ibuprofen until they can get me back in next week. So I’m firstly worrying about these symptoms and secondly worrying about having to go back in next week!

Just wondered if anyone could share their experiences of having the lead displaced and needing more surgery to correct it? I’m gutted that it’s happened just when I thought I was on the mend, but I’m trying to stay positive and not to worry so much! :)

2 Comments

So sorry

by Jenni.k - 2018-04-06 18:54:45

I just wanted to say I'm so sorry this happened to you. I also had my PM implanted just a bit over 2 weeks ago and have been very fearful of dislodging the leads. At 2 weeks out, I'm still having all sorts of weird sensations (pressure, vibrations, occasional pain) so I wonder how much of what you're feeling is still the post-surgery effects vs the lead displacement. Just think-soon this will all be behind you and you'll be able to focus on life post-PM again. I'm wishing you a speedy recovery!

lead problems

by Dexter - 2018-04-08 14:27:29

Sorry about having to go back to surgery. My lead problem happened during my initial surgery and I was in pain in the recovery room every time I inhaled. Turns out the lead had passed through the wall of my heart and was poking my lung. Doctor blamed it on my heart being "so small." Guess he was more used to working with enlarged hearts than my normal-sized one (I have sick sinus syndrome). They rolled me back in and fixed it. No problems in the 5 years since. They should be able to fix yours easily.

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It may be the first time we've felt a normal heart rhythm in a long time, so of course it seems too fast and too strong.