6wks post-op Corroded Leads!

• by 60bpm
• 2008-09-18 04:09:30
• Complications
• 1609 views
• 1 comments

Hello,
I want to share my story and see if there is anyone else out there with a similar situation. PM implanted 7/31/08 St. Jude Medical PM not sure which lead manufacturer. Leads were a blend of two things ( unclear at this point but I believe they were a mixture actually combined silicone with polyeurethane). I have been in excruiating pain since unit was installed.
At 2.5 weeks went back to EP to have things checked out. He asked why I waited so long. I should not have been in so much pain. Never having had a PM I initially dismissed the pain as healing time. PM was tender to touch, I had a burning sensation from collarbone and where my left arm joins my chest. Also, when I sat up, or typed I felt like something was constantly pecking my collarbone.
At 3 weeks, went back to hospital through ER. Had ultrasound, CT Scan, Chest X-ray, PM check all to no avail. Still no explanation for pain. Also had a patch test using the PM components done by a dermatologist. Still nothing! Went back to EP 1 week later and he scheduled me for repositioning surgery 9/16/08.
Entire unit removed and replaced with a new one The leads were corroded ( within 6wks they were from 2 different lots) EP said it looked as though they had been in me for years.
I am scared to death that new leads will also breakdown. Even though they are made differently than originals; wire, silicone cover, then polyeurethane coating.
Have any of you experienced the same symtoms? What has been your outcomes?