Any advice for a future ICD'er

Hello, I will be having a Bi-Valve Defibrillator with a Pacemaker implanted on Feb5th. I'm 64 yrs old and have CHF and much difficulty in breathing, My ejection fraction was around 35% after I had my 1st MI 15 yrs ago. After the 2nd one last November it has dropped to 15-20%. I am very positive about the implant improving my chances to live to see my grandchildren as they grow up but also apprehensive as to how much the defibrillator will improve my EF. I have been a diabetic for 35 yrs-a brittle diabetic with many hi's and lows. I am trying very hard to eat well and do whatever exercise I can tolerate--Which isn't too much right now. I would like to hear from anyone who may have some advice or encouragement to share with me. as to what to expect after I have the procedure. Thank You very much, Lucas Alan

3 Comments

Future ICD'r

by mrag - 2010-01-23 11:01:49

The defibrillator portion shouldn't do anything for your EF. It's only there to prevent you from dying in the event your heart goes into a dangerous rhythm ;-)

I'm not real clear on your description of Bi-Valve, but I am guessing it is something like a "cardiac resyncronization" device (CRT). About a third of the people getting them have GREAT results, another third GOOD results and the others marginal improvements with improvement over a longer period. The odds are well in your favor that you have some significant improvement in your life style/ Good luck.

Good luck

by janetinak - 2010-01-24 04:01:52

sounds like things can only get better for you & I sure hope they do.

That SOB is tough. I had a lot of it with Afib before my PM got put in & things are better for me now thanks to the PM. Hope all goes well for you & you can play with those grandkids.

Let us know how you are,

Janet

CRT-D

by brucerob - 2010-01-24 11:01:01

I have CHF, a three lead defibrillator and have had serious bouts of SOB. I was implanted in May 2008, at that time my EF was 10 to 15%. My ICD has enabled me to enjoy every day and also work full time. The odds are that your life will also improve. The defibrillator has delivered therapy on three occasions, all necessary. The implant procedure was very easy to go through.

Best Wishes, Bruce

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My eight year old son had a pacemaker since he was 6 months old. He does very well, plays soccer, baseball, and rides his bike. I am so glad he is not ashamed of his pacemaker. He will proudly show his "battery" to anyone.