hard area in the front of the underarm?

I am not quite three weeks out from CRT-D implantation.  I wasn't able to take any painkillers except day of surgery, and this one has been a bit more painful than my first device, so I only have been able to raise my left arm well this week.  Noticed a hard lump in the left underarm; I don't think it was there before the surgery.  No pain from it; just an exeedingly mild ache after showering with, of course, warm water.

Has anyone experienced anything like this?  I didn't think any part of any lead would be in my left underarm but am a bit hesitant to call the device clinic if it's not related to the CRT-D.  I embarass myself frequently enough without making a fool of myself there, too.  :)

Thank you!

4 Comments

Thank you, Angy!

by barbara100 - 2019-11-08 11:58:27

All great advice!

Hard lump in front of underarm

by Pshust - 2019-11-26 20:36:03

I am 30 days post surgery for my PM. I noticed a lump there one week after the procedure, but felt that it was just from the swelling. I still have a lump there and feel I should ask clinic about it. Did you get any answers about yours? Thanks!

lump in underarm after implantation

by barbara100 - 2019-12-02 09:42:20

I see the Device Clinic and my internist's PA this week.  If you don't mind reminding me on Friday, I will respond with what they said.  I stupidly did not ask the cardiologist when I saw him last week b/c the nurse was called away before I could get up the gumption to ask.  But I hope to get an appt with her in the next two weeks, as well.  I will tickler myself to write you back with any feedback I receive, but if you could post here, as well, on Friday, I will have seen at least the Device Clinic and the PA by then,  And if you learn anything, would you mind letting me know?  Thank you!

lumps under arm (and elsewhere) after implantation

by barbara100 - 2019-12-02 09:49:15

The lump in the underarm turned out to be part of the CRT-D itself.  The device has migrated outward.  This can be a benign condition; it depends on any associated pain, infection, etc.  Among others, women who don't have much fat in the upper body can experience this.

Google

pacemaker migration, 

and you will find numerous articles about these guys taking off for unauthorized adventures. 

Also, see https://www.pacemakerclub.com/message/8301/did-anyone-have-lumps-in-neck-or-arm-after-surgery.  This poster had a fever and infection, though.  One commenter said that the lump could signal an inflammatory response if no fever or infection.

Of course, anyone with a lump in this or any area surrounding a PM should see his or her EP right away, etc., etc.  My dx was just that - for my situation only.

Hoping your PM stays where it was placed!

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