Upgrading to CRT-D

After 16 years on a dual chamber pacemaker, I am going to be upgraded to CRT-D. I have had two Medtronic pacemakers in those 16 years, a Thera and now on an Adapta. My cardiologist uses Medtronic so I was looking through their website at the different CRT-D devices and it is difficult to determine which would be the best for me and why. They list a Viva, Protecta, Concerto, or Maximo. Does anyone know why one model would be used over another? Insurance? What can one model do that another can not? Please comment. Thank you.

Richard

3 Comments

My CRT-D

by dad4dds - 2013-08-21 11:08:26

is a Medtronic Consulta. I have had it since December 2012. I have had no issues with it. It was set and has been fine ever since.

Good Luck Brian

but....

by PacerRep - 2013-08-23 08:08:55

I just realized I didn't answer your question. The Viva is there best CRT-D device right now. It is there "longest lasting" of all there devices and is 5cc's smaller than the protecta.

From a CRT-D standpoint

by PacerRep - 2013-08-23 08:08:57

They will all function about the same. Now one thing to be aware of...Medtronic batteries are the weakest in the industry in terms of how long they will last. You will be switching that thing out every 5 years.

I saw angry sparrow's comment on letting the EP decide and I would have to respectfully disagree. Doc's don't choose devices based on technology (rarely do you find one that does). They are chosen based on relationships.

I personally would want a different brand, based on how often the battery will deplete. Medtronic CRT-D's are pretty thick also, they stick out much more than other devices.

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