brand of pm ?

Do hospitals sometimes change the brand of pm they use ?
I am coming up to my second implant I have now a Biotronik but not sure what I will get with the next pacemaker ?
I would also like to know is Biotronik also used in USA ?

3 Comments

Biotronik USA

by Theknotguy - 2014-01-25 03:01:15

There is a Biotronik USA on Biotronik's web site.

https://www.biotronik.com/wps/wcm/connect/en_us_web/biotronik/home

So I'd get on the site and ask them.

Medtronics is so embedded in my area with the local hospitals and doctors that I feel it would be almost impossible for them to leave Medtronics. They have tech people all over the place and my cardiologist has a room for them to use. So I feel it's highly unlikely they'll go away from Medtronics.

I used to do computer / software repair. Did a lot of work on IBM systems. So when the guy showed up with the Daewoo system, I was having problems getting it fixed. No spare parts, no support system, etc. Didn't know when you picked up the Daewoo system it would spit out system cards like baby teeth.

So question in my mind is if you are moving from a Biotronik area to a Medtronics (or whatever) area maybe you'll want to switch? I'd hate to be on the table when the doc says, "Don't know anything about that." I'm sure you're like me - you've become rather attached to your current PM. (Sorry, no pun intended but I couldn't resist.) And you hate to move away from something that has served you well but, I'd rather have a system that is well know in the area versus something you'd have to travel a distance to get it serviced.

Obviously best option would be for your EP to say, "Yeah, sure, no problem." and you can keep what you like.

Hope it works out well for you.

Theknotguy

Discuss with your doctor

by SaraTB - 2014-01-25 05:01:09

My first pacemaker was a Medtronic - my then EP explained the reasons why he chose that one for me. When it was replaced, my new EP (the other had moved) discussed Medtronic, Biotronik and Boston Scientific with me, inviting me to read each company's website, after he discussed how he felt about each one. I researched to, and then discussed them again, so we could make a selection. All are good, so ask your doctor why a Biotronik, if you want to know. It's common to switch different brands: the leads are all compatible anyway.

My EP said that Biotronik was a more recent arrival in the US, so although his team had trained on the programming, at that point he did feel they had more experience with the others, although he was clearly impressed with the Biotronik product and service.
In the end, for various reasons, I had a Boston Scientific, but who knows, next time?

Biotronik

by pace-man - 2014-01-25 10:01:19

Hi , I had a Biotronic pacemaker fitted to me late last year , so far so good , I have spoken to the cardiologist about the unit and he has told me that it is MRI tolerant and that I can pretty well use most power tools both corded and cordless , electric welders and 2 stroke motor powered tools. I can pass through airport scanners as well with no ill effects.
From what I understand they are manufactured in Swtzerland, Germany and The USA, they have been making pacemakers since 1963 ,so they have had plenty of practice, the cardiologist told me that my batteries will last for another eleven years. So I am very happy that I have a Biotronic brand. Rick

You know you're wired when...

Your old device becomes a paper weight for your desk.

Member Quotes

You now get to start a new life it's like being reborn.