Hi all, just giving an update. I had my surgery for my ICD on Wed. They sent me home yesterday. I was in recovery for a long time. When the Dr. finally came to see me, he informed me that they couldn't get the third lead in, that my viens were to small. So now they are going to consult with another cardiologist to see if it is feasable to try again, or whether they have to do an "epicardio" (I need to look that up, I am not really sure what that is). Anyways they say they can't do anything for 6 weeks as they need what they did to heal up, they are worried about infection. I am in so much pain, and the only thing I can take is tylenol extra strength. I can barely stand up, it hurts so much. Last night was rough, I ended up sitting on the couch, because if I lay down I can't get up without help. :(

Anyone ever have this problem, or have more info on epicardio? Thanks.

Lisa

 

 

Lisa,
I had been warned prior to my bivent surgery 3 months ago that this was a possiblility if they couldn't get a good vein to run the third lead.

Basically, it's an epicardial lead implant that is a surgical procedure usually performed by a cardiothoracic surgeon, not an electrophysiologist, that runs the third lead to the ventrical from your pacemaker site directly into the heart, as opposed to running through a vein. It is minimally invasive heart surgery. But it will be worth it to have the benefits of a bivent as you'll feel SO MUCH BETTER with the bivent completely operative!

The only thing I don't get is why the strongest pain med you can take is Tylenol. That's rediculous! Adequate pain control is mandated medically, and I'd insist on something stronger to make you feel more comfortable while you're healing from your surgery. Demand it if you need it!

 

As stated you need to ask for a stronger pain medication. Last implant, I was given generic perkaset,(sp?). But I would use the stronger pain meds at night and tylenol during the day. I too, suppose to take only tylenol for any pain since I'm on warfarin. But after any medical procedure you should be given strong pain medications. If your in pain it makes healing take longer.

 

I also have the bi-ventricular/ icd and they were unable to get the third lead in place. My EP tells me it is being done by robiotics now and I am trying to wait for the procedure to become more local and also find a Dr. that has done a few. I do not want to be the first in line.My ejection fraction is only 20% so not much time to waste. Ask your Dr about this procedure and maybe save some major surg. and get an additional benefit

I did not have much post-op pain I think you need to question your pain med. The recovery will take longer if you are in pain and apprehensive.

Good luck and keep us posted

 

I always suggest using ice packs on the incision. To me, running out of ice would be scarier than running out of pain meds! Pain meds make me nauseous and dizzy, but ice packs are wonderfully effective for the pain after implant surgery! Hang in there, it will get a little better each day. If it doesn't, go in and see the Dr.!
Bambi

 

Thanks all for your advice and information. I am feeling better today. I did start taking Tylenol 3's with codeine and that helped alot. It was also great to have a shower today. My boys and friends have been helpful.
Lisa