Pacemaker sizes

Leads

by Hamsquatch - 2017-03-03 20:50:59

I'm not sure about PM sizes but leads definitely come in different lengths.

All shapes and sizes

by DampDog - 2017-03-04 04:54:37

Depending on what type of device you require the sizes vary significantly. Basic pacemakers are only about 2/3 or less than the size of an ICD/CRT-D. I have a Medtronic CRT-D and it measures (74mm x 51mm x 13mm) and weighs about 81g. A basic pacemaker measures approx (45 mm x 51 mm x 8 mm) and weighs only 22g. Medtronic also have some devices that are shaped slightly ( PhysioCurve) so the device is slighly less boxy in shape. But they all vary slightly depending on manufacturer.

Lead types and lengths are numerous depending on their function and location they need to be placed. They generally come in one or more lengths to suit patient sizes.

Just have a look on the manufacturers website for information.

Why are you concerned about size?

by LondonAndy - 2017-03-04 16:32:25

I don't ask this to be dismissive of your question, and of course there is some variation especially with newer models, but yours is already pretty new and I just want to understand why you ask.  Are you developing an irrational anxiety?  Pacemakers are the size that they need to be for their function, and the leads as long as they need to be to link from the device into the heart.

Or are you worried about a visible bulge?  Or interference near other devices?

irrational really????

by DampDog - 2017-03-05 05:06:11

Where have you conjured up the notion that it's an irrational anxiety? It's a pretty a blinkered view imo. Your post does sound dismissive.

No one wants to have a device implanted unless they absolutely need it, I think it's only natural to be curious and enquire how big it is, and where it will be placed. If you only have a slight stature some or these devices can be quite prominent. The difference between having to cram in 3 leads vs 1 or 2 can also make a difference to how comfortable the device will be.

The difference in weight alone can make a difference to how long it is before they feel comfortable. When I first tried to jog with my CRT-D it was sore for days because it had bounced about so much. It's taken it months to settle in properly. Simple pacemakers are close to 1/4 of the weight.

I though it was a pretty valid question to be asking.

Size...

by Cabg Patch - 2017-03-07 11:16:45

I'm guessing you've never heard...Size doesn't matter.

Seriously, first, lead lengths are determined by your height. They use some extra length and curl it under the generator body so that when you move there is no tension against the ends of the leads causing them to pull loose. These lead lengths are predetermined and not sized during implant.

The device sizes do vary by type, model and manufacturer. For example a CRT-D is larger than a pacemaker. The CRT has more electronics and battery and capacitor that are quite large making the overall device naturally bigger.

All that said, what is at least partially the determining factor in what size your device is boils down to what your needs are. Knowing your condition and what the application is, the doctor selects what he feels the best product is to meet your needs.

What you need to do before any implant is to instruct your doctor what is important to you, your daily activities, and any special request but let him select the best device.

One final thought, if you are concerned about size for cosmetic reasons, there are tricks they can do to compensate such as implanting under your arm on the chest wall, or under the pectoral muscle. Again talk to your doctor.

just keep getting smaller

by dwelch - 2017-03-13 14:02:47

I am facing pacer number 5 in a few weeks.  They are now so small that the connector dominates the size more than the battery.  Kind of like usb thumb drives, the usb connector drives the size most of the plastic is so you can have something to grab on to.  Leads are leads they have to have ones for whatever size you ar and what chamber they are aiming for, not a problem there.

The number of connectors and whether it is an ICD or just a pacer should mostly dominate the overall size.