FAQ

The effect of turning off a lead depends on which lead it is and what function it was providing. ICDs can have between one and three leads, each connected to a different chamber of the heart or serving a different purpose.

A lead may be turned off because it is no longer functioning correctly, because it is causing inappropriate sensing or therapy, or because a new lead has been added to replace its function. In some cases a lead is left in place but deactivated rather than removed, as lead extraction carries its own risks.

Whether the device can still deliver full therapy after a lead is turned off depends on the configuration. If the defibrillation lead is unaffected, the device can still deliver a shock when needed. If a pacing lead is turned off, the device may pace less effectively or not at all in certain situations. Your cardiologist will explain exactly what the change means for your individual device programming and what, if any, additional monitoring or precautions are needed.

If a lead has been turned off and you are unsure what that means for your protection, ask your ICD clinic directly. You are entitled to a clear explanation of how your device is currently configured and what it will and will not do.

Category: Implantable Devices

Lead perforation is a potential complication occurring rarely in heart device implant procedures. It occurs when a lead pokes through the heart wall instead of embedding into the heart wall muscle.

Category: Implantable Devices

When your heart device is implanted, your doctor threads one end of the lead through a vein into your heart, attaching the lead tip to the heart wall. Your doctor then connects the other end of the lead to your heart device.

Category: Implantable Devices

ICD lead recalls and safety alerts do occasionally occur. In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for issuing medical device safety alerts, and manufacturers are required to notify affected patients and clinicians when a recall or field safety corrective action is issued.

If your leads are subject to a recall or safety alert, your ICD clinic should contact you directly with information about what has been found, what the risk level is, and what action if any is recommended. In many cases no immediate action is needed and increased monitoring is sufficient. In others, earlier replacement may be recommended. The decision is made on an individual basis taking into account the specific issue, your overall risk profile, and the risks of any procedure to address it.

If you have concerns about your leads and have not heard from your clinic, you can contact them directly and ask. You can also search the MHRA’s medical device alerts database at gov.uk/drug-device-alerts to see if any alerts have been issued for your device or lead model. You will find your device and lead model details on your device ID card or in your implant documentation.

Category: Implantable Devices

ICDs connect to the different chambers of your heart using 1 to 3 leads. Your doctor will determine the number of leads implanted based on your individual needs.

Category: Implantable Devices

Leads are placed in the hostile environment of the human body, making it hard to predict longevity. Your doctor will regularly monitor your device and lead function for any signs of malfunction.

Category: Implantable Devices

You will probably not need new leads. However, your doctor will test your existing leads before, during and after your surgery. If tests indicate that it’s time for new leads, they will be replaced along with your ICD.

Category: Implantable Devices

Typically, the leads are reused with the new heart device. If the existing leads cannot be reused, they will stay in the body and new leads will be implanted. In certain situations, the doctor may recommend a lead be removed and replaced with a new lead.  The lead removal procedure is usually performed by a doctor who specializes in lead extractions.

Category: Implantable Devices