pacemakers

[dam2008]

my dad is 77 years old .his heart beats is decreasing cos of some medicines but his doc said he should put a pacemakers but i think it is not that reliable it could get infected or migrate.is it advisable to do though his dr says the medicines are not the cause what do you recommend?
thks

[ksig]

After reading your post, I concluded that you are most worried about the pacer migration and the possibility of infection. Not to worry.  

The wound care right after the implant is important but the critical part last only a couple of weeks.  It is not any different than cleaning and protecting a serious laceration. Once you clean the wound, you place an antibiotic cream over *** and then add gauze and a protective covering.  

As far as the pacer migration goes, the pacer is placed in a pouch created under the skin. If you do not twiddle with it, it will heal and stay put.  I had a pacer implanted 4 years ago and have not had one problem with migration or infection. I do have a small scar from the incision but welcome it as the pacer has saved my life. In fact I wear the scar like a badge of honor.

I hope your dad gets the help he needs in order to get back to his precious life.
ksig

[EMT23]

My Dad had to get a pacemaker...he was also on medication for his blood pressure which can also lower the pulse. If the doctor would have taken him off the meds his b/p would go up and can cause a stroke. His HR was so low he went into congestive heart failure because the heart just wasn't pumping enough to keep up the demands of his body and he was filling up with fluid every where and was so short of breath as a result. I really thought we were going to lose him. He was sent to an EP who recommended a pacemaker and had it placed. That was the best thing that he did...he basically came back to life...his congestive heart failure greatly improved and he was able to live life again!