lead wire extraction-YIKES

Hi all I'm 47 had a pacer since 19 many lead changes ( excess hardware) had a percutaneous laed extraction 5years ago - did not care for it at all LOL- Now my battery is done and no room at the inn I need another extraction they shot for 6 last time got 3 one broke in half took myself off coumadin after 2 years not a good drug unless you eat the same food everyday - I'm not the best eater- I have numerous abandoned leads some are since I was 19- screw ins you name it it's probably in there - I am getting too old for this - Usually my pacers last 2 or 3 years tops 2 3 years ago during a change insulatin fell off and he thank God repaired it or I would have had to have an extaction- Has anyone had a recent extraction - Jeez I've been at this a long time but am a little scared as the last extraction took 11 hous - I hated the General anesthesia He says it's improved I hope so - I wish they could find a unit that adapts to my current leads ( Guidant) but I don't think so - My trace a pace guy is probably mad as I missed my call this week and haven't done it yet - I know why they are so anxious it's probably ready to quit - I go to Montifiore in N.Y Dr. Jay Gross ( LOVE HIM) - just don't like to be botherd wish I could have done it in Feb. Now boom right in time to screw up my summer and I coach a dance team strts in July- If thats the case I won't be able to lift my arm over my head - Sorry I'm whining!1 Any info would help - Thanks Colleen

4 Comments

had one of those!

by bambi - 2007-04-19 11:04:53

Hi Colleen,
Lenora's absolutely right, and I can't add anything except I had both my leads extracted and replaced last July. Hopefully your Dr. has done these laser assisted extractions. I did very well, no complications, and was in recovery somewhere between 2-3 hours. I wish you the best of luck. Oh, and even the anesthesia has improved! Take care! Bambi

Lead Extraction

by lenora - 2007-04-19 12:04:01

The biggest problem with lead extraction in the past has been cutting through scar tissue surrounding the lead. They're now using lasers to ablate scar tissue in many hospitals, a procedure which takes just a few minutes. There is less risk of complications such as bleeding and possible puncture of the heart wall. You might ask your cardiologist who does laser lead extraction in your area. Lenora

Lead extraction

by colldoll - 2007-04-23 08:04:30

Thanks Lenora and bambi actually he is Dr, Jay Gross NYC one of the first and top surgeons for this procedure it's just that my leads are so old some of them 27 years old and I am just so afraid of a complication as I have had so many leads and pacers and recalls and fracturesand I hate to have to stay overnight I'll keep you posted my appt. is May 17th peace to all Colleen

lead extraction

by colldoll - 2007-04-23 08:04:37

Thanks Bambi - I put a post out for you and Lenore Peace Colleen

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