ATTN DBS patients-my unfortunate event...
 

I happened to have chest pains this past Wed; morning. I have bilateral STN DBS and EKG's are unreadable without the stim being turned off. Well, the battery ( 9 volt) in my controller was dead. The ambulance didn't have one-I was away from home, in the car. Well, when we got to the ER they didn't have one either. Took 20 mins to get one so I could turn it off. All has worked out so far ok but geeeeeeeez.

how scary
 

Glad you are ok.....that must have been a nightmare. Also the first time I've heard about that happening.

paula

Jim, Glad to hear you are OK. I change my controller battery every 6 months - Jan/July BUT don't carry it with me unless I am traveling. Thanks for giving me a reason for popping it in my purse. Hope you wear a medic alert bracelet.

FYI
External defibrillation may damage a Neurostimulator. If external defibrillation is necessary and the situation permits, follow these precautions to minimize current flowing through the neurostimulator and lead-extension system:
Position defibrillation paddles as far from the neurostimulator as possible.
Position defibrillation paddles perpendicular to the implanted neurostimulator-lead system.
Use the lowest clinically appropriate energy output (watt seconds).
Confirm neurostimulation system function following any external defibrillation.

TG

Ah, crap. That had to be rather nerveracking. Glad to know you're okay. Take it easy, though.