New ICD scheduled for replacement, new manufacturer as well... any thoughts?

Hello all.... I always appreciate the kindess and feedback of this group. 

Here goes.... I have a St. Jude, I know they have been sold out.  I beleive I am being switched to a different maker for a few simple reasons.... longer life battery and a thinner profile of unit.  I can't remember the new maker, maybe boston scientific?  Medtronic bought out St. Jude correct?  Any thoughts???? Thank you! 

3 Comments

ICD replacement

by islandgirl - 2018-12-28 17:34:18

Go to their websites and read about their ICDs.  Ask your EP his opinions and what activities you participate in.  

manufacturers

by Tracey_E - 2018-12-28 21:13:07

St Judes was bought out by Abbott. Their devices haven't change, just a new name now. 

Ask your doctor the downsides, but longer battery and smaller box sure seems like two solid reasons to switch. All of them are dependable and will do the job. Leads are interchangeable between brands so that's not an issue. There are some differences in pacing that may make one a better choice than another, assuming you use it for pacing.

those brands are all fine

by dwelch - 2019-01-01 02:20:07

The brands you named are all fine, one brand or model may come out in the news from time to time.  But then the next time something happens in the news its some other brand.  One is no "better" than the other. 

Well, smaller is better sure if it has enough battery life.  Longer life is better but they really cant determine battery life it is what it is I have had some supposed to last longer and they didnt.

I have had pacers not ICDs but I have had medtronics, st jude, boston scientific.  I have a medtronic lead a guidant lead and I think my newest lead is boston sci, will have to look at my card on that.  yes they are interchangeable I have one lead that is over 30 years old another coming up on 25 years old.  and one that is a year and something old.  

I recommend you get a doc you trust and trust the doc you have.  Let the doctor choose the device.  Your job is to advise him/her on the kinds of activities you do or want to do and how the current device is behaving with respect to that.  

You know you're wired when...

You have a dymo-powered bike.

Member Quotes

A properly implanted and adjusted pacemaker will not even be noticeable after you get over the surgery.