Managing your cardiac device
Heart devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillators, are a reliable and effective treatment for many heart rhythm issues. While complications are uncommon, they can occur and range from a lead malfunction to an infection.1 Learn what signs and symptoms to look out for and discover life-saving resources to help you become an active part in the shared decision-making process with your doctor.
It’s important your device is maintained and managed properly as there is a connection between your device and your ongoing health. Here are some quick tips for living with your heart device.
Heart device batteries typically require replacement every 6-12 years
If your device has leads, they may also require replacement
Contact your doctor if you are experiencing infection symptoms such as fever or fatigue and have received multiple rounds of antibiotics
Redness of the skin at the device site and pain/tenderness are also red flags
Life after lead extraction
How lead extraction has led one man to a life of zero restrictions
Carl received his first pacemaker at age 24 and since experienced fractured leads that, at the time, were unable to be removed. After seeing Dr. Manyam, Carl has had all fractured leads replaced. He is now completely MRI safe and has avoided the long-term risks of lead abandonment.
Carl, pacemaker patient
Jerry’s wife, Helane, knew something wasn’t right.
When Jerry, a pacemaker patient, experienced a sudden negative turn in his health, he and his wife Helane sought out answers. After working with multiple doctors and trying different treatments, it was finally determined Jerry had an infection of his heart device.
Jerry, pacemaker patient
Signs of infection
Did you know more than 60,000 patients globally will develop an infection of their heart device this year?2 And of those, most will be given multiple rounds of antibiotics instead of full system extraction, which is the only way to completely remove the infection.3
Learn what signs and symptoms to look out for so you can help physicians identify the treatment you need, faster.
Shared decision-making
Each heart device patient and journey is different. Becoming a self-advocate and learning how to talk with your doctor will help you be an active part in the shared decision-making process. Check out this informative brochure about cardiac leads and discuss ongoing management with your doctor.
What is lead extraction?
If it is decided the best decision for your health is the removal of your heart device or leads, a trained doctor will perform a lead extraction procedure.
During the procedure, your doctor will advance a flexible tube (sheath) over the lead, gently freeing the lead by removing scar tissue. Some of these sheaths can deliver laser energy to the scar or use precise surgical blades designed to safely remove the lead. Your doctor will continue this process until all targeted leads are safely extracted.
Search for an experienced doctor near you
Visit Upbeat.org/find-a-specialist and select the ‘Lead Management’ clinical expertise to find specialists that meet your geographic criteria.
Our mission is to bring you life-saving information about symptoms and treatment options for heart device infections and other implications. Patient education and initiatives on CIED infection are created in partnership with Arrhythmia Alliance and Mended Hearts.
The resources found on this site may be printed and brought to your doctor appointment so you can discuss treatment options that best meet your needs. For additional information, visit www.heartrhythmalliance.org and www.mendedhearts.org.
