How to Remove Pacemaker Leads

Pacemaker lead removal, also known as extraction, can be performed in several different ways. Given the length of time the leads have been place, your doctor may elect standard extraction, laser assisted extraction, or no extraction at all. In all cases, this type of surgical procedure should always be performed by a qualified surgeon.

Instructions

• 1

  Medical gloves

  Locate a qualified surgeon in whom you feel confident. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case and follow up with any exams recommended by your doctor. These exams will determine the amount of scar tissue surrounding the leads. The more scar tissue in place, the more in-depth and difficult the lead removal can be.

• 2

  Surgical suite

  Discuss the options with your surgeon. If you have a heavy amount of scar tissue, he may recommend the use of a excimer laser to remove the leads. This procedure is becoming increasingly common because it can lessen recovery time and is less traumatic to the surrounding tissue than the use of a scalpel and force. In some cases, lead removal is not possible given the specific circumstances of the patient. If this is the case, the doctor will recommend alternative options.

• 3

  Hospital sign

  Schedule your surgery and follow any preoperative and postoperative instructions given you by the medical staff. Remember that pacemaker leads are attached to the heart, so the surgery, while common, is also delicate. It's important to listen to and head the warnings of the surgical team. Allow the specified recovery time to lapse before returning to normal activity.