Swelling between Clavicle and Scapula

I had a pacemaker implanted 6 days ago. I started running a low grade fever on Sunday and had severe pain in the left rib cage. Was advised to go to the ER, diagnosed with pleural effusion, sent home with pain meds for 3 days. Yesterday,during the afternoon, I developed neck pain Left sided and noticed a distinctive bulge between my clavicle and scapula, and extending up the side of my neck.
How much of this is normal postop events? My heart doctor referred me to my Infectious Disease MD, who referred me to my primary doctor, who says she can't do anything because she is not the surgeon on the case. Help me!

2 Comments

Swelling

by Pookie - 2012-02-28 06:02:39

I too developed pleural effusion after having my pacemaker inserted (Nov 2, 2004).

With your new symptoms I would go back to the ER to be checked and for peace of mind.

As far as who should be caring for you - perhaps your family doctor should be writing a letter to the doctor who implanted your pacemaker. But whoever implanted your pacemaker might be thinking "well, I implanted the pacemaker, my job is done" and if they think that way, then who is to take care of you???? that is what I'd be asking that person.

If you still have neck pain I'd be going back to the ER. Pain in the only way our bodies can tell us that something is not right.

Unfortunately, sometimes we have to dig in our heels and become a little firm with our caregivers.

Best of luck and keep us posted.

Pookie

Post op issues becoming 'normal'

by bloc_de_branche - 2012-02-28 12:02:15

I too had post op issues, and I found that others on here have too... seems very common now.
Do not sit idle with this but make sure you get this figured out. I would go back to the hospital ASAP and keep asking questions and (yes be polite but firm) insist that someone take care of you! We are but patients to the docs, lots of patients and I wonder sometimes if they see past that, which is pretty sad.

Take care, I wish you the best
Merci

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