Scared about BiV defib

[annette8]

Had my cardiac cath. Very smooth procedure. No blockages. Docs assuming I had a virus causing the CHF (that mysterious virus I have read about in so many threads).
Scheduled to see an EP  this week about Bi-V ICD placement. Now that really scares me, having a little metal in my chest. But, I know the importance considering my EF and the LBBB. Most worried about having it put in; supposedly they stop the heart to give the device a chance to prove itself. AHHHH!!! And, I have read that the Biventricular pacer can be complicated. Just have to trust in their expertise. My doctor for this operation is very young, but they seem to be the ones most current with technolgy. It will be done at Washington Hosp. Cen. in DC, so I will be surrounded by the best. STILL SCARED SILLY THOUGH!

[annette8]

Thanks for responding. EF <20%. On Coreg 6.25mg BID. Did not raise it on  last visist because my pulse drops to low 50s, even as low as 48. I do go into the 70s  when more active. BP is fine at 90-115/50-65. Also on  Lisinopril 10mg hs, Lasix 20mg BID,Aldactone 25 mg daily, Digoxin 0.125 mg hs. Take baby asa, mevocor. Feel good most days, but tired.
You have done well with EF of 15% for a long period. Why aren't you Biv paced? My doc insists this will make me feel better.

[neil_a]

Sorry for the reason that you came here for a visit :-)

What is your EF?  Mine is 15% since '03....not pretty when one is transplant bound.

What meds are you on?

re: "about Bi-V ICD placement. Now that really scares me"

Be calm.  It's okay.  I have a plain ICD.  Put in - in '06.  It is the first surgery I've had.

Well - it's okay.  It's sore.  You are given plenty of pain meds and a script to take home.  My arm was immobilized in a sling for a few days.  Hospitisation - one day - I think I remember.

Can't shower on that side for days.  Can't raise your arm on that side - above your head - for quite some time.

*****************

Now - re stopping heart.  Don't worry and be very happy that they can.

My heart is so weak that they wouldn't take the chance of stopping it.

I'm very happy to hear that you didn't have any blockages.

As a new CHF patient - visit:

chfpatients

might help

Neil