two wire to 3 wire pacemaker

New Pacemaker?

by AgentX86 - 2018-07-15 18:32:40

Did they say they had to replace the pacemaker?  I'm sure they'll use the existing leads, if at all possible.  Taking out a lead is not trivial.  They're usually left in place, even if no longer used but in this case, I can't see why they wouldn't reuse what's there.  These are things to ask when you're there.

As far as the battery goes, there are are many factors that come into play but all things equal, the extra lead will take more energy.  I'm paced in both ventricles 100% (dependent) but the estimated life of the battery is still eight years.

3 Leads

by Grateful Heart - 2018-07-15 19:07:17

No, they will just add the 3rd lead (wire)....unless there is a problem with one of your leads, they will leave the other 2 in place.  Your new device will be a CRT (Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy) aka: Bi-Ventricular Pacemaker. Some are a CRT-P pacemaker only and some are CRT-D pacemaker with a defibrillator....that is what I have.

Battery longevity? well, mine has lasted over 9 1/2 years and it needs to be replaced this week, but you really can't go by mine....most do not last this long since it paces you 100% in both ventricles.  I think mine is defective....in more ways than one.  lol   You gotta keep a sense of humor....most important!

Apparently, your Cardio has decided you will benefit from a 3 lead....not uncommon so don't worry.  Just ask him why and what your diagnosis is so you better understand and can ask questions....and of course....we'll be here.

 Grateful Heart

two to three wires

by fisherguy - 2018-07-15 19:13:02

Thanks. I didnt think of all the questions I should have asked when told of the need to change due to Chronic combined systolic and diastolic heart failure.I have read on this site that the skills of the surgeon for the 3rd wire is very important. I'm very thankful to be living in an era with these procedures available.

CRT-P

by The real Patch - 2018-07-16 15:02:48

So you're getting a CRT-P also referred to as a Bi-ventricular pacemaker. The reason he's doing that is both sides of your heart are damaged and not pumping correctly so they are going to pace both ventricles to overcome the problem.

Actually they've developed a lead that has 4 nodes that can be selected to optimize the function. They select the contact point that is closest to the sweet spot so it's less artsy installing the ventricular lead. Check with him about getting a quadra assura