Dont ever

Dont ever let a cardioligist tell you it is ok to resume total physical exercise activity after only two weeks of your pacemaker implant.......mine did......all restrictions were lifted, plus he implanted my PM on my dominant side. I am right handed so he placed it on my right side. Hence I am seeking legal consultation. I know, I know, probably wont do any good, but he at least is gonna get a piece of my mind on his procedures...........BillyD

2 Comments

Hi BillyD

by Gellia3 - 2010-11-14 03:11:37

Many times a PM is placed on the right side because the vessels are more easily transversed from there down into the heart.

I also have my PM on my right side. I am right handed, too. This was done because the vessels on my left side were much smaller. The right side made for an easier insertion.

Ask your dr why he put it on your right side. He may have had a good reason.

I never found any limitations with having mine on my right side. Give yourself a chance to heal. It really shouldn't bother you.

Just a thought.
Best to you,
Gellia

Left or Right Implant!!

by donb - 2010-11-15 08:11:06

I have my 4th PM St. Jude 5820 since Feb 2009. It's fairly good size but tucked 1 finger's width under my right collar bone. It is by far the best location compared to the previous left shoulder implants. I am right handed and don't find any discomfort doing any kind of work. I feel that one of the reasons for this implant to feel so much better was the highly skilled Cardiologist that did this last implant.
I might suggest to any newcomers to our PM world to really do a search of available surgeons in their area. I was put at ease minutes before my last implant as I asked the St. Jude rep how he felt about my surgeon doing my job. He reasurred me I would be very happy with the implant as he was the best in positioning, securing and wiring my PM. Just recently had lunch with him in the hospital cafeteria and boosted his ego about the great job he did, not only the surgery but also took care of atrial-fib with medicine change. donb

You know you're wired when...

Your favorite poem is “Ode to a Cardiac Node”.

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I'm 44, active and have had my device for two years. I love it as I can run again and enjoy working out without feeling like I'm an old man.