Return to golf after pacemaker implant.

I had a pacemaker fitted 7 weeks ago. Unfortunately, I picked up a post -operative wound infection which didn't respond to 3 weeks of antibiotics. I have had a little local soreness, but no fever/temperature. I was shocked last week to be informed by my cardiologist that the infection appeared to have spread to the pacemaker itself and that I would therefore need: 

1. the current pacemaker to be removed.  2. 10 days on an intravenous drip.  3. a new pacemaker fitted on the 'other' side of my chest - the right hand side. 
Whilst shocked by this news I was even more concerned to hear (via golfing friends -all medical 'experts' 😉), that very few individuals who play golf right handed manage to return to playing golf if their pacemaker is fitted on the right hand side. My 'experts' suggest that the right sided location is much more vulnerable to becoming 'detached'  from the wires because of the rotation natural turn of the body when swinging a club. 
I am seeing my cardiologist again next week, and will ultimately adhere to his recommendations: I'm merely looking for some positivity and/or examples of any golfers who have returned to playing golf with a right sided pacemaker placement. All advice gratefully received! Many thanks. 

 

 

 

4 Comments

Aw so sorry

by Lavender - 2024-10-10 09:46:16

It's got to be frustrating to have recently gone through all that and still be looking at the surgery for the replacement. I have read here of others who had a similar issue. 
 

I have never golfed so I can't answer your question but I would think your EP can advise you. May all go well!

talk to them about placement

by Tracey_E - 2024-10-10 11:31:10

If they place it low and deep enough, golf shouldn't be a problem once you heal. Discuss it with them before they do the placement. They may want you  to wait longer than the usual 6 weeks. I live in a huge golf area, my ep's instructions include a section for golfers to wait 3 months for a full swing. Putt, chip and pitch are ok sooner. 

"Infection spread to the pacemaker itself"

by IrishToast - 2024-10-13 09:38:28

I would be more concerned at this point about my life, that medical team and the truth. 

Study recommending removal. https://corporate.dukehealth.org/news/few-patients-have-infected-heart-devices-removed-despite-lifesaving-benefits

Thanks…..

by Earlsdon45 - 2024-10-13 12:01:30

...to all for taking the time to respond: helpful thoughts in advance of my forthcoming consultation. 

You know you're wired when...

Your kids call you Cyborg.

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I have an ICD which is both a pacer/defib. I have no problems with mine and it has saved my life.