2yrs. post av node ablation

Hi, I am 40 yr. female.  I received by first pacemaker  implant Sept 1999.  I had a serious pacemaker infection in 2005, that required a complete laser removal and replacement of leads and unit.  I had incessant atrial fibrillation and other arrythmias that required an av node ablation in 2006'.  I felt better than ever without arrythmia.  Then In Jan. 2007, I fell down a flight of stairs and  burst vertabrae in my lower spine.  I had extensive surgery with bone grafting and a corpectomy to put my back together. I have never been without pain since.  The last few months, since late spring, my back has suddenly gotten horribly painfull, and my endurance heartwise has been difficult.  I went away with my husband and devoloped difficutly breathing, bulging chest and neck veins, severe headache, fever with chills.  Everytime I excert I have fever, fluid build up, and severe headache. My  back has been severely painful right along.

I did have an infection in my pacemaker not long after the latest implanit, which was only 2 months after
Harrington instumentation was applied to my back.  I am scared, my serum calcium is high, I have fever every day, my excersion level is minimal, and my  back is excruciating.  

Is it possible that there is in an infection in the hardware in my back or my pacemaker.  I have already had pacemaker infections.  Fever persists.  Help

[Michael J. McWilliams, M.D.]

That is a lot to go through. You have had  a rough few  years.

If you have hardware in your body (pacemaker, defibrillator, back pain unit, artificial hip, knee, etc) and you have persistent fevers and don't feel well,  it is very possible that you have an infection.  You need to see your doctor for a history / physical and blood cultures among other possible tests.  Make sure the blood cultures are drawn before any antibiotics are given.  From the story you mention above, I am concerned you have an infection.  

Probably best if you see your pacemaker and back doctor as well.  It might also be worth seeing an infectious disease specialist to coordinate care while they try to determine if you are infected and where.

I hope this helps.