Twitching

Hi everyone, My husband received his first pacer at age 19 for type two heart block and nocternal bradycardia. His next generator change was in his late 20s, both were St. Jude. In July, he had another generator change at the age of 35. This was a Boston Scientific device. We went back multiple times to get the settings correct. This part is now resolved. However, about twice a day, he experiences muscle twitching at his site. He also has a sensation in his heart before the twitching starts. We have had numerous visits to his cardiologist. All his tests, heart monitor, interogation, etc, have been normal. Has anyone had similar issue and how was this remedied? Thank you!

5 Comments

Twitching

by doublehorn48 - 2018-02-03 11:33:47

When one of my pm's was plaed I noticed that if I lifted my arm to a certain level my pm would twitch rather violently.  I brought this up to the Doctor that did the implant and was told that my pm was probably next to a nerve.

If I felt a twitch I moved my arm up or down.  I was close to needing another pm and noticed one night that my pm didn't twitch.  Went to the cardiologist the following day.  I was quickly sceduled for another pm.

Good luck with your twitch.

 

 

Thanks.

by crymsha - 2018-02-03 14:07:38

@doublehorn48 

Thanks. Our next step is to see a different cardiologist. Most of the medical journal case studies state the extracardiac stimulation is due to insulation issues.

Hi

by PhilUK - 2018-02-05 06:00:41

 I have had my Boston Scientific PM for 15 months now and also have the same pulsing / twitching from the implant site.

 I could not get an explanation from the NHS so wrote to Boston Scientific.  I am told the unit performs a safety self test every 21 hours. I am told I feel the pulses as the lead must be next to a nerve around the collarbone. I also feel the empty type sensation in my chest just prior to the test taking place. I explained this to the tech and she said she could turn off the safety test but did not recommend it so I left it on. I always feel 14 pulses every 21 hours which are visible through my shirt. 

  Not long after my email to Boston Scientific I received a recall. My appointment is on the 20th February. We will see.

   Regards,

                  Phil

Thanks

by crymsha - 2018-02-05 21:05:39

@PhilUK

Thanks Phil. The cardiologist thought that was the issue, but it happens at least twice per day.

ahhh...

by PhilUK - 2018-02-06 10:38:36

  Crymsha,  send an email to Boston scientific explaining what is going on. The gent was very helpful for me.

   I found nobody within the cardio department knew anywhere near enough about these Pacemakers.

 

   Good luck!

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