Has anyone with a Pacemaker had a colonoscopy or EGD

Posted by missy245 @missy245, Jan 12 1:31pm

I had a Medtronic PM placed a year ago for Mobitz type II and 2:1 second degree AV block .
Medtronic site says this "A patient with an implanted heart device may have a colonoscopy, but there are some factors to consider. If polyps need to be removed with electrocautery equipment, certain precautions need to be taken. Consult with a doctor prior to this procedure."
This would be a repeat colonoscopy because the last one showed 2 large Adenoma Polyps. I have a long history of these kind of polyps being removed. I also need a repeat EGD because of precancerous cells found in the last one. (Probably from taking too many Ibuprofen for my RA)
So more than likely they will have to remove polyps and will definitely take stomach biopsies.
Last PM check in November showed ventricular pacing in the Left Bundle Branch area at 100% and Atrial pacing 23%
"Atrial arrhythmias: Brief episodes of paroxysmal atrial tachycardia, burden < 0.1%.
Ventricular arrhythmias: No clinically significant ventricular arrhythmias since last assessment."

I also have history of SVTs, PACs, and atrial flutter, low burden < 2%, but medication seems to be working well for those.

I was in the hospital for a couple of days for Pericarditis in October. I have RA and they blamed it on that, however I'd also just taken a Covid booster 5 days before being admitted, so who knows why this occurred.
Because of the Pericarditis I'm on colchicine for 3 more months and had to switch from Diltiazem to Metroprol since Dilitiazem shouldn't be mixed with colchicine.

It sure seems to me that this could be a dicey situation, so wondering how this was handled in anyone with a similar profile to mine.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Pacemaker & ICDs Support Group.

Dana, Volunteer Mentor | @danab | Jan 12 7:07pm

Hi @missy245 I've had colonoscopies done a couple of times with my Pacemaker with defibulator. I Also had a few polyps removed. I 've also had EGDs but Im not sure if I had my pacemaker yet. My particular Heart condition was VT and had many episodes of arrythmias having them treated either by pacing or if that did not work I was shocked to get back in rhythm.

Now I never had any problems with the colonoscopy or polyp removal but My advise is give your EP Cardiologist a call and verify with them.

jc76 | @jc76 | Jan 13 6:42am

@missy245
I have had a ICD/Pacemaker since 2006. I just has a colonoscopy in 2023. Had 6 polyps removed. I also had a colonoscopy in 2013. Both were with anesthesia and anesthesiologist.

No problems at all. Most colonoscopies and all mine done at Mayo Jacksonville are under anesthesia and anesthesiologist will be there. I know at Mayo Jacksonville you have a consultation with anesthesiologist each time prior to procedure.

With my ICD/Pacemaker had both a colonoscopy in 2023 and a prostate biopsy. Had same anesthesiologist and he called my by my first name saying I was just with you. You will do fine again as I will be there to make sure.

I see the mentor (Dana) has already given you his experience and the advise to call your EP if you are concerned.

missy245 | @missy245 | Jan 13 9:46am

Thanks @danab and @jc76 . Wow jc76, 6 polyps!!
I have read there could be EMI interference when they remove polyps or take a biopsy.

The Gastroenterologist I've gone to for over 20 years, is no long with the same system all my other Doctors including my EP are with.
He used to be, but about 5 years ago he ventured out with a group who own their own practice and it has become a bit of a procedure mill.
I was not thrilled about that with my last procedures and so have planned to switch to someone in the same system as my EP and all my other Doctors are in. I haven't done that yet though.

Although all my procedures have been with anesthesia, I have never met with the anesthesiologist before the procedure.

Thanks again!

jc76 | @jc76 | Jan 13 4:00pm

In reply to @missy245 "Thanks @danab and @jc76 . Wow jc76, 6 polyps!! I have read there could be EMI..." + (show)

@missy245
I guess I am really lucky to be at Mayo Jacksonville.

Every time I have a procedure which requires anesthesia the anesthesiologist comes in, introduces himself (not had a female yet) and we go over the procedure what will be done and any question I have.

The same for surgeon doing procedure and also the care nurse who says will be there prior to, during and after.

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