EF and adding a 3rd lead

Hi all!  I may be reaching the point where I need  another lead to bring my EF up.  My 1998 PM has been pretty much problem free but when they did an echo before my last generator change my EF went from 55-60 to 45. A recent echo showed 42.  Anyone get the new device with 3 leads and did it help with your EF?  My main symptoms are SOB, low stamina, hiking uphill a real slog.  Thanks, as always!

3 Comments

Ejection Fraction below 35% would be heart failure territory

by Gemita - 2024-09-29 13:12:29

Lulu, in the UK an ejection fraction of 35% and below would normally entitle us to be considered for a CRT pacemaker but certainly not before.  And even then we would usually have had to try to improve our condition/symptoms with medication first before going down the cardiac resynchronization therapy route.  

I see you are reaching a point where you have started to consider a third lead.  Has your doctor suggested this?  Your EF is still fairly good although I appreciate it doesn’t feel like it with the SOB and poor exercise tolerance.

CRT isn’t always immediately effective and usually takes at least 3 months before we start noticing an improvement.  While some members get instant improved results, some members may not benefit and may still require medication as well to help with their symptoms.

I have just checked your bio history.  You don’t seem to have coronary artery disease although you have a history of SVT and of a failed ablation.  I presume the cause for the SOB has been investigated and you have been told that a CRT pacemaker might help?   

 

Hi Lulu🌻

by Lavender - 2024-09-29 13:13:13

I'm on my first pacemaker-it's a CRT-P, three leads.  My EF went from about 45 to now 55-60 in a few months after getting it. Some folks take a bit longer if they get an improvement. 

Me too...

by BHayes - 2024-10-03 16:32:01

I had my dual lead pacer inplemented in 2014 due to complete AV block and the battery is at it's end-of-life after 10 years.  My EF is lower 40s afters decreasing some in the past couple of years.  My Dr feels that we should also add the 3rd lead to reduce the chance of my EF worsening.

I understand the concern, but if your Dr is anything like mine he will understand and allow you the time to ask the questions you need to so you are comfortable with what is going to be done.  As an engineer, I like having as much information as possible, but also my Dr is a great fit for me and I trust him completely.  As I understand it, there will be no noticable difference to me, but will keep my heart healthier through the remaining years that I will need to remain paced.

Good luck and prayers to you in finding answers and peace with this. 

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