ICD erosion

Has anyone had this happen to them. My ICD was put in 4 yrs ago. Turns out I had one of the Medtronic wires that was recalled and it started to fracture. May 5th this yr I had a new wire put in. I have been complaining that something is not right from week 4 post op. Six months later I made another appt. with the surgeon who then confirmed that everything was not alright and told me that the skin by the new ICD was eroding. This only happens 1% of the time. Now I am waiting for the date of my next surgery where they will move my ICD under the muscle.

Would love to hear from anyone else who has had this happen to them. Last thing I wanted was another surgery, but if I had not gone back it would have come through my skin and everything would have needed to be replaced.

4 Comments

Erosion? Oh dear..

by bunnykin - 2009-10-25 01:10:57

Hi, I've got a Medtronic lead that was on recall too and that was removed/extracted in July after VT/VF shock. My 4th ICD was replaced and new lead reimplanted in July 09. Now having read your post regarding possible erosion I'm rather concerned; I'm having constant horrendous pain after 2-3mths post op from the device site. My ICD seems to be poking out of the skin and leads port area seem to be protruding more than my 3 previous devices. I am a little worried that eventually I may have similar problem as yours! Not due to go for review till next month.You're welcomed to send me private message if you want to discuss further your concerns. All the best in your future checks and decisions on your procedure if required. bunnykin

Erosion

by donb - 2009-10-25 10:10:27

Hi, I also had a PM erode this year. It was my 3rd PM after 17 years. It was not a good fit in the same area pouch and with lots of activity it started to show signs of eroding. I kept after my Cardiologist to take care of it and finally it was removed. Please, don't wait too long as infection can get started. I was very fortunate after 4 surgeries of new right chest installation and old site restoration to not get infection. That can get nasty as you check some of the postings.

This Support group really gets on top of problem areas but remember also that all the PM, ICD people out there without problems don't look at this site. I was one of them for 17 years but can't thank the membership for their help and support. Again, see your Cardiologist and get the work done. Thank You!! DonB

Follow up

by akitagirl - 2009-11-09 10:11:32

Tomorrow I meet with the plastic surgeon who will do the relocation of my ICD with my EP Dr. I have a lot of questions, and I am a bit anxious. Since my first post on this which was a couple of weeks ago, my ICD has become even more pronounced. It looks like the surgery will be next week, but should know more tomorrow.

I will post what I find out tomorrow.

ICD EROSION

by MARMSTR786 - 2009-12-05 12:12:58

My ICD Eroded through my skin due to excessive weight lifting at my job. I had a accomodation from my employer of a 25lb. restriction. My employer disregarded this and had me lift in excess of 150lbs over the course of 4 days straight. My ICD eroded through the skin pocket and was hanging out. My employer denied me workers compensation and now I have to go to court. Any one else have any similar erosion as my case is rare according to doctors.

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