Lead extraction scheduled

• by Amyelynn
• 2024-07-14 14:25:51
• Batteries & Leads
• 327 views
• 3 comments

Hi all,

I finally found the right surgeon and hospital to perform my lead extraction (I got two opinions both doctors wanted to extract the old leads)

I will be going to Cedar Sinai in  Los Angeles Nov 5th for extraction of all four leads. 26 & 16 years old as well as the implant of a new pacemaker (hopefully this time back to my left side; non dominant) and two new leads. (He wanted to do a wireless but i definitely do not want that) way too new of technology and twice the amount of procedures since each "battery" does not last the same length. Atrial has a lot shorter lifespan since less room in the atrial so the device itself and battery are a lot smaller. I also have read a bit about electromagnetic interference which can disrupt the battery life... oh an no remote checking available yet with the duel leadless.

looking forward to Medtronic eventually coming out with one with a lot more research 🤞🏼maybe by the time my future new leads fail I will feel more comfortable with a leadless.

Dr Raymond Schaerf is a cardiothoraic surgeon who performs the difficult extractions at the hospital. He does roughly 125 a year! 
he thought it would be best to start fresh and take all the leads out as my atrial lead had some damage to the insulation during my last pacemaker update in 10/23. He said you never know how long that could last and the leads are already on older side. Also it is now becoming apparent that my ventricle lead is using more voltage than it should be (which in turn is draining the battery life more) I guess should be under 1.5 V but my ventricle lead is using 2.5- over 3. The Medtronic rep said it's "all over the place" 😬 not sure if this could mean damage to that lead? What are you guys experience?

I plan to ask my local EP about this at my August appointment coming up.

i decided not to have the procedure done with my current local EP and her team as they are far less experienced (performing less than 25 extractions a year)

so my husband and our dogs will be driving south to La (about 8 hours) so get the procedure there and a rental (hoping sun-Fri) and be able to drive back home. Monday will be pre op testing, Tuesday procedure and Friday an in clinic visit with surgeon before I get cleared to go home. Hoping to be out of the hospital prior to that though given all goes well.

will be taking the month off from work (dog walking) and hoping to return first week in Dec with some restrictions until full recovery at 6-8 weeks (per surgeon)

any tips/ guidance for recovery?

questions I should ask the surgeon prior to the procedure? 

thanks all!

Amy