If a pacemaker or device has been fitted recently it is usually easy to remove. However, if it has been in for a longer period the device and leads can become fibrosed into the blood vessels, making it more difficult to remove.
It is rare to remove pacemakers or devices, but it is sometimes considered if there is serious infection around the pacemaker box or the wires. It may also be performed if the device is eroding through the skin, or when the pacemaker or device needs to be replaced because it has stopped working.
It is possible to remove the entire pacing system in about 9 out of 10 cases. Of the other 1 out of 10, around half can have most of the system removed leaving only part of the system in place.
The risks are less with recently implanted pacemakers or devices, but are higher in patients in whom the device has been in place for a long time. The risk of a serious problem is 1-2 out of every 100 cases but can include tearing of the blood vessels or heart which can be serious an require emergency surgery. The risk of death is around 1 in 250 cases.
Device extraction is performed under general anaesthetic. Whilst you are asleep an incision is made over the pacemaker or device site and specialist equipment is used to release the pacemaker wires. You may have catheters (long thin tubes) inserted from the top of the leg to help with the procedure. You will usually stay overnight to be monitored after the procedure.
This is a very specialist procedure requiring careful consideration by expert Consultant Cardiologists. Our cardiologists are available for consultation on any day of the week and weekends as well.
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