Type or brand of pacemaker

I have been advised to have a pacemaker installed to correct a slow heart rate. I am avid scuba diver and I contacted the medical staff at Divers Alert Network (DAN). They told me that if I am otherwise fit I could continue to scuba dive but that I needed a pacemaker that could withstand the pressure of 4 atmospheres of water (about 130 feet). Does anyone know which units are so rated?

5 Comments

Probably all of them

by AgentX86 - 2018-10-14 21:04:56

But check with the manufacturer.  THis subject has come up here before and it seems to be a fairly common question for the manufacturers. You should have the phone number in the documentation you received when you checked out of the hospital.  The phone number should be on your ID card, too, if you've received it.  You'll need the model and serial numbers when you call.

diving

by Tracey_E - 2018-10-14 22:30:52

I have a St Judes, don't remember what model, it's rated to 4 atm. I called to ask because my sister is an avid diver and determined to get me to try it. I think that's standard but the manufacturer can tell you for sure. It sounds like you didn't get it yet? Talk to your doctor, they work with the manufacturer's reps to decide the best model for you and that's something they'll want to know. 

Mine

by El Gordo - 2018-10-16 18:35:13

I have a Sorin Reply DR pacemaker. It's rated to 4 atmospheres (I spoke to the guy who did the testing).

Just a thought, but I don't intend to inform any dive operators that I have a pacemaker. My cardiologist and the manufacturer are good with it, and my concern is being required to get additional medical clearance to satisfy some dive company.

Gordo

by Tracey_E - 2018-10-16 22:27:10

I never ever let on I have a pacemaker/cardiac condition, it's just asking for trouble. Those rules come from attorneys who live in fear of litigation, and they tend to lump all heart problems into one pile. I go by my doctor, if he says it's ok, it's none of their business and I'm not opening that can of worms.

I may or may not have a collection of pictures of myself in front of cardiac warning signs. ;oP  My doctor thinks it's hilarious. 

SCUBA pacemaker

by Elmer - 2018-10-17 06:22:11

I have a St. Jude’s PM1240 rated for 6 Atmospheres (198 feet). I investigated Medtronic and Boston Scientific models. They do not compare and could prevent you from ever diving again. I had my PM installed on 25 September 2018, so I am still in recovery. I plan to dive soon and will let you know how it goes. 

I recommend that you do your own homework on this issue.

Good luck! 

You know you're wired when...

You have a new body part.

Member Quotes

Your anxiety is normal. It takes some of us a little time to adjust to the new friend. As much as they love you, family and friends without a device just cannot understand the adjustment we go through. That is why this site is so valuable.