Pacemaker site pain

My pacemaker was implanted in August due to sick sinus syndrome. After the procedure when they applied the pressure dressing the sutures holding the pacer in place tore loose and the pacer slid out of it's pocket and partially into my armpit. I had extreme pain after the procedure and when the dressing was removed I had a very painful lump in my armpit. The EP said this was normal swelling because he had placed the pacemaker under my breast muscle which would cause more pain and swelling. However, a few weeks later the swelling decreased and I could clearly feel it was definitely the pacemaker. It now migrates in and out of the armpit and throughout my upper chest. I have called his office and left messages that this is causing considerable pain, but they seem unconcerned. I haven't seen my EP Since the surgery; I have a follow up at the end of this month.

Has anyone had a similar issue? What was the solution?


* I have Ehlers-Danlos a connective tissue disorder which explaines why the sutures didn't hold (it's been described like stitching butter).

2 Comments

Thanks

by amj1156 - 2015-12-17 03:12:06

Thanks. I know this isn't emergent, just very bothersome. I would find a new EP but the main reason for seeing him is for treatment of my POTS ; it is very difficult to find a doctor knowledgeable in this area (in fact theres only a handfull of specialists in the state of Texas). I was just curious what can be done if anything when the pacemaker is moving around, and if other people have had a similar experience.

Same problem!

by danilou02@gmail.com - 2016-01-04 03:01:08

My ICD now slides in and out of my armpit and causes considerable pain. I have seen 2 different NPs about it because I cant see my doc until Feb. One did stupid tests, and the other guy told me it was normal! Right after surgery the xray showed a pneumothorax keeping me another day. Then the week after surgery I was in horrible pain I finally went to another ER they loaded me with heparin and nitro before the CT scan and found a hole in my heart. Well they were quick on their feet to reverse the heparin! Six more days in the hospital that time! I have been back to the er serval times because of this pain! But a few days ago I was told it has to move with your body and they don't like to reopen the site because of possible infection! So are we suppose to live like this? I'm a soccer referee and I move my and a lot! After an 11 game weekend I'm usually in tears Sunday night, but I have to support my family! But I feel your pain! When you bend over does yours turn sideways?

You know you're wired when...

Your heart beats like a teenager in love.

Member Quotes

We are ALIVE! How wonderful is modern medicine.