Lead Extraction

Went in for a new pacemaker and a lead extraction of old capped lead.  Subclavian vein was cut and I bled out requiring 6 transfusions and CPR for 3 minutes. 10 days later I needed VATS Thoracotomy and Decortication lung surgery to remove the large plural effusion and blood clots.  I had chest tubes in both surgeries the heart surgery being the largest and most painful.  I now have intercostal nerve damage and intermittent nerve pain and constant numbness in my side and front 1.2 of my stomach.   A very deep breath feels like I have a corset on.   It's been 8 months.  Does anyone have any experience with this?  It's been a long terrifying time.  

4 Comments

yikes

by Tracey_E - 2024-07-29 09:45:04

No advice whatsoever but I'm so sorry that happened to you. 

Hugs.

by Lavender - 2024-07-29 10:01:13

This sounds awful. But it also sounds like something rare that has happened. Lots of folks here have undergone lead extraction without complications. I'm sorry it is still bringing you pain and hope it improves for you in time as you heal. 

Bad

by piglet22 - 2024-07-29 11:29:22

You don't expect to come out worse than you went in.

Something like that happened to a neighbour of mine, but he didn't make it home. At least you got through it.

There have been discussions on here about the pros and cons of lead extraction, and your experience highlights the dangers.

Hope you are recovering.

So sorry

by Amyelynn - 2024-07-30 23:07:44

Hi Sandra,

I feel for you. This is probably my worst fear when it comes to lead extraction; to have a complication that causes chronic pain and/or a negative change in my quality of life.

i see your from MA (as am I) mind if I ask where you had your procedure at?

what do your doctors say?

have you seen any new specialist that may have a different perspective or ide son how to help you? It is fixable?

wish you the best; keep fighting and advocating if you feel you are not getting answers and/or the help you need.

amy 

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In fact after the final "tweaks" of my pacemaker programming at the one year check up it is working so well that I forget I have it.