Mammograms

No problem

by Gotrhythm - 2018-01-24 15:05:02

Having a pacemaker is new to you, but the people at the mamogram place see patients with pacemakers all the time. Nothing to worry about.

Do let them know...

by Grateful Heart - 2018-01-24 16:46:13

...that you have a pacemaker and it's location.  A good tech will take the time to use care during the exam (not squeeze too much, etc.).

Also, don't be alarmed if they request a sonogram as well.  Sometimes they can not see behind the device so they will do the 2nd exam.   

Good luck.

Grateful Heart

Recently had a Mammo

by Flo - 2018-01-24 19:16:36

Recently had my first mammo and ultrasound post pacemaker.  Told them I had a pacemaker and was given a tech with 17 years experience.  There were no problems or discomfort.  The report did state that positioning was limited on the right side due to the pacemaker.  

Not so lucky

by Alma Annie - 2018-01-25 00:37:50

I had a new digital M a year after having PM.  I had to have a long appointment due to having a PM.  I don't know why.  No care was taken and she pushed the machine hard over on my left breast.  I yelled.  She asked if it had hurt, my reply being that I would not have yelled if it had not hurt.  I then discovered my leads had been moved.  They have been uncomfortable ever since, but no damage was done.  I refused another one, but had an ultra sound instead.

Alma Annie.

Had two

by Janey L - 2018-01-25 09:10:24

Hi. I have had two mammograms since my PM implant. Both were fine. I told the tech I had a pacemaker and she was excellent at taking care with it when she positioned me.

Best wishes

Janey

pacers and mammograms

by Tracey_E - 2018-01-25 09:49:22

I've had both regular and diagnostic mammos as well as ultrasounds, no problem. I like to go to the same place each time so they have my previous records that show them where the pacer is. If the tech seems at all hesitant, ask for someone else. It's not uncommon, shouldn't be a big deal.. 

The only issue I've ever had wasn't the mammo itself, but when I needed a biopsy for a mass right next to the pacer. We did a pacer interrogation before as a baseline then again after to make sure the leads were ok, and he adjusted the angle he went in from in order to avoid my leads.