New Pacemaker

Hey all!!
How are you?
I've not posted on here in what seems like an age! Just thought I'd tell you all that in going in next Wednesday 4th of feb for my 2nd Pacemaker...my last one has lasted nearly 7years....1st time round I didnt get much time to think about it because I was so poorly and it happened rather quickly. This time round I'm just a bit nervous if I'm honest, not too bad because I know that I need this and it's going to happen.
What was all your recovery times? When did you return to work etc?
In the USA are you allowed to keep your old units? I don't think I will be allowed in the UK but would love to keep it. Anyhow thanks for reading.
Take care
Louise xx

3 Comments

Hi there!

by SaraTB - 2015-01-31 03:01:24

Louise, hello - I'm a Brit, living in the US. I got to keep my first PM - handed to me (because I asked to keep it) sealed in a hazmat bag. I don't actually recall where it is now.

The replacement procedure was a doddle: arrived in the morning, home by lunchtime. It's much easier this time, firstly because the pocket has already been made, so there's none of the bruising and swelling as that heals, and the leads are already in place, so the doctor just removes them from the old PM and attaches them to the new one, then puts the new PM into the pocket.

It's natural to be a bit nervous, but I know what you mean about the first implant: mine was done with only a day's notice too, so I didn't get a chance to get used to the idea. This time should be a lot easier. Plus you won't have to worry about not raising your arm too far, because the leads are already in place - all you have to worry about afterwards is caring for the incision area.

As far as recovery time goes, I think most of us have been up and around the same day, feeling completely normal, as long as we watch for the healing incision area.

Good luck and let us know how it goes!

Thank you!

by LouLou21 - 2015-01-31 04:01:13

Thank you SaraTB that so reassuring!! I do just want to get it over with, I think I'll be taking a week or so off work only because I don't want my wound to get infected, my office is right on the factory floor and is quite dusty/dirty. I have read that I should drive for a week after...but will ask the question once I get to hospital.
Many thanks once again, your words have helped a lot.xxxxxx

Hello

by mytrose43 - 2015-01-31 07:01:07

I just had a replacement after 9 years in November did very well with recovery except a tiny infection that was cleared up very fast .the pain was very mild compared to the original placement i was pretty much back to normal in 3 days had a bit of bruising and swelling but the Dr did wound revision because my first one never healed properly and was about a inch up and down so now its a nice pretty thin scar. I did take my old Pacemaker home they actually asked if i wanted it,Best of luck to you. I am in the USA
Valerie

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My pacemaker is intact and working great.