CRT-D removed ?

Can a person have a pacemaker removed?  I’ve had it for 2 years after I refused for a year. Doctors convinced me into getting it. I’m trying to go back to work and I think it will prevent me from getting my job back. My EF is 10 for 2 years now. I go to the gym everyday, cardio with some weight training. I actually feel really great!  


5 Comments

Thanks!

by Mosco79 - 2018-10-26 00:52:07

I have a CRT-D.  My EF has been at 10 for 2 years but I feel normal. I do 5 miles cardio everyday with no shortness of breath. I was put on entresto last year, but that hasn’t improved my EF.  I think my body has adjusted itself. I feel like I’m being punished for something that wasn’t preventable. I have cardiomyopathy due to bronchitis. I was reading that your heart tissue grows around the 3 leads and they can’t be removed. Just wondering if anyone else has have there’s removed and if insurance covers it?  

Heart Failure

by DAVID H - 2018-10-26 12:53:40

Mosco79:   ----  Did I read that right? - Your ejection fraction is 10%? That is a mighty low number. Individuals with a low EF (mine is 22%) are at risk for sudden cardiac arrest, hense the need for the defib function.  You should exam this issue closely before making any hasty move.

--Dave--

Denial?

by BOBTHOM - 2018-10-26 22:57:44

If your EF is 10% and you were on entresto, then you have heart failure and returning to work should not be a consideration.  It sounds as if you are in denial.  You need to learn and understand more about your heart disease.  

Lead Removal....

by BOBTHOM - 2018-10-27 00:02:46

Yes, the leads can be removed.  There are cardiologists that specialize in it.  Generally if it is not posing a risk to you the insurance will not pay for it.  And good luck finding a doctor that would approve removing a CRT from a person with an EF of 10%.

working

by Tracey_E - 2018-10-29 11:29:09

Your condition is what would keep you from getting your job back, not the device. If anything, the device would help because it helps with EF and the defib keeps you safe. 

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