scar tissue

My pacemaker wire is just under the skin about four to six inches below my shoulder. Normally I don't notice it too much, but it is still sensitive. My pm is almost two years old, and lately I find that the wire causes a burning feeling. I am sure it is not infected and wonder if it is being caused by scar tissue buildup... any one else have that problem? Thanks for any info... aldeer

3 Comments

Scar Tissue

by donb - 2009-07-19 03:07:18

Yes, I think you'll find there's quite a few of us out there That have scar tissue problems. My 3rd PM generator started my problems with scar tissue building up around the top of the PM where the leads are attached, then progressed down in the pouch. As it was 16 years of using the same pouch area and a larger PM being irritated by my activities, after 2 years erosion started at the top where leads attach and PM had to be removed and a complete new PM & lead installation in my right chest. My old leads were capped and left in the old site. About 6 weeks ago surgery was done on the old site, scar tissue removed, it had gone up the muscle under collar bone. The surgeon did a good job but was told by my Cardiologist to leave the leads intact.

One of the bulky capped lead ends is now erroding again and I will be going in tomorrow , Monday to do the whole job over, the leads WILL be cut, secured, and padded. As I feel bad for the Plastic Surgeon but was instructed to do the recontruction by my Cardiologist. Originally I was told that my old leads would be extracted but the risk factor after almost 17 years would have been greater even with laser removal.

So all in all I have had very good years with my PMs' and have had real good support from our group. Every time I look over the postings I always thank my God for my good times with my Titanium buddy. So, if any questions, please post!!! DonB

thank you

by aldeer - 2009-07-19 06:07:34

It is always easier to deal with something when you know what it is... I appreciate your words. Good luck to both of you. I'm hoping because of my age (81) that the scar tissue will grow slowly :)
aldeer

Yep!

by DC Pacer - 2009-07-19 06:07:49

Have the same issue, but I am only 3 1/2 months in. My lead wires at the PM site have pushed straight into the scar tissue, creating a burning or light "shocking" sensation. The skin on top of my PM is also ALWAYS sensitive to the touch, a seatbelt, etc...

I am just kind of dealing with it, and hoping that it doesn't erode the skin or scar tissue to the point that more surgery is required.

You know you're wired when...

You can take a lickin’ and keep on tickin’.

Member Quotes

As for my pacemaker (almost 7 years old) I like to think of it in the terms of the old Timex commercial - takes a licking and keeps on ticking.