Removing Pacer

Is there a way to get your device removed? 

I got my device implanted in 2010. And my second in 2015. I have had a variety of complications since 2010, and worsening symptoms. I was put on a metoprolol in 2015 as well because the symptoms were getting worse and worse. 

It is now 2018 and due to insurance my cardiologist has changed. My new cardiologist ran a variety of tests - because my symptoms were once again getting worse - and as of today told me I can stop all of the medications and I no longer need to follow up with him. 

I am supposed to follow up with the pacer reps every 3 months and go to the ER if there’s a problem. 

To me this seems stupid. However, since after a lifetime as a cardiac patient, and years or medications and procedures I am just burnt out. Since everyone is in agreement that the arrhythmia won’t actually kill me I would like to get the pacemaker removed. I just cannot keep doing this anymore and would like to be done with both cardiology and the pacemaker reps.

Does anyone have experience with this? 

4 Comments

Don't give up

by Jimmy Dinfla - 2018-05-02 20:44:25

This doesn't sound right.  Definitely find another cardiologist.  Certainly you are frustrated and tired of all of this, but don't give up.  There is so much in life to look forward to....

Some questions

by Gotrhythm - 2018-05-03 12:23:02

Your post left me with more questions than answers.

!. What condition neccessitated the pacemakers? You've had two. That seems to indicate some longstanding problem.

2. Why do you want the pacemaker removed? Is it because (a) you think you no longer need it? or (b) you think it is making you worse? or (c) you are so frustrated with trying to deal with heart doctors that you are ready to give up?

If the answer is (c) I hear your frustration and sympathize. I know there was something wrong. I knew whatever was wrong, I never had it before the pacemaker. I knew I was steadily getting worse, but all I seemed to get was vague reassuraces and the impression they thought I was a nutcase. 

I think what you really need is an electrophysiologist--a cardiologist who specializes in heart rhythm issues--to help you think through your options. If the cardio you were seeing can't help you, find someone else. Going to a major medical center to see someone knowledgeable about atypical pacemaker issues was the answer for me.

Don't go alone. You need someone else to help you know if what you are hearing is what the doctor is really saying.

 

early withdrawl

by The real Patch - 2018-05-04 18:16:38

That makes no sense. Your symptoms are worse and the doctor tells you to drop everything and get rid of the pacemaker. Well whatever, who are we to judge whether you should get the device out or not. Assuming you have insurance you'll probably have to wait for the battery to be depleted, or pay out of pocket. You may have to search awhile but I'm sure you can find a EP to remove the device. An option is to shut it down but leave it in, that way if you do need it ...

Want my pacemaker removed

by Justlinda - 2018-05-05 13:02:38

well. It sounds like your issue returned. I have had a pacemaker for 5 years. Before it was put in I had been having dizzy spells and the electric cardio gram showed my heart dropped significantly. Once. Well I got scared and said yes to the pacemaker. Since that time NOTHING has happened. I do have a floppy valve that bothers me off and on. My pacemaker has been turned down to 50 also. When they check the PC the checkers tell me my heart is perfect. Why the PC. I want mine removed. But cardiologist keeps putting me off. Thanks for sharing. I will get this done. Take care. Also if you need the PC now thank goodness they are available 

 

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I finished 29th in London in 2 hours 20 minutes 30 seconds which is my fastest with or without a device so clearly it didn’t slow me down ! I had no problems apart from some slight chaffing on my scar - more Vaseline next time.