Breaking leads

Hi, I'm Karin from Venezuela, ImI41 years old I just got my third pacemaker and as well as third pair of leads.

 

Does anyone has problems with breaking their leads? Mine take about 5 years to break and I'm not doing anything steange but going to the gym every now and then.

Sadly, doctor couldn't take the old leads out so now I have 3 pairs of leads.

I would appreciate any comments you may have. Thanks a lot.

3 Comments

not normal

by Tracey_E - 2018-07-16 11:36:20

Leads should last on average 15 years. I can see one set lasting 5, but wearing out 3 sets so quickly is highly unusual. Where did they put 3 sets of leads?? A vein can hold 3, sometimes 4, but I've never heard of 6. 

There are surgeons that can take out old leads. It's a highly specialized procedure and you would most likely have to travel to have it done, but it can be done. 

Leads

by Jimmy Dinfla - 2018-07-16 22:45:12

Good question.  I don't know the answer.  

I did an internet search for:

pacemaker break leads

I found several articles.  Recommend also doing an internet search.

Breaking Leads

by BladeRunner - 2018-07-22 12:30:26

I had a 5 year old lead break. Mine fractured right under my clavicle and my doctor told me that is one of the most common places for it to break. I am a fairly small person and I think that is part of the problem. 

My lead extraction attempt went badly and the doctors finally gave up and just threaded in a replacement. I currently have 4 leads. 

Good luck and keep us posted. 

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