Originally Posted by Jackiey

Hi
I had my unit implanted in Aug 2008 and since then I too lost weight. My battery is in my left buttock also up near the waistband of my trousers.
In February 2009 I had a new battery inserted as the old battery was faulty. It was unpleasant but necessary.

A couple of months ago I went to my Dr. As like you I had more weight loss and I was concerned that the battery had migrated to the top layer of my skin and was 'working its way out'.

My Dr examined me and then did some X-rays to show me that all was well. Yes the battery was very close to the surface but that it was better there than deeper as the remote might not pick up the signal as well as it was. He told me it was well anchored in and it was going nowhere.

He did ask me if I wanted to have it moved but I said absolutely not I dont want more surgery, another surgical site,more scar tissue etc I have gotten used to it now and I'm just careful when I'm doing things not to bang it off anything. And also in what clothes I'm wearing.

To me the less surgery the better and after 7 ops I don't want any more. Try not to worry and I'm sure it will be fine. Any surgery is a risk and each time you are building up scar tissue which itself is another issue.

Take care

Jackie [/QUOTE

Hi Jackiey,

I really appreciated hearing about your experience in choosing the non-surgical option and how it’s worked for you. What bad luck in getting a dud battery and requiring replacement surgery so soon! I would have found that very frustrating. I'm glad that the benefits for you have been worth the effort.

You sound so over surgery like me, I‘ve had a similar number, also a couple with serious complications (nerve root palsy, post op hemorrhaging). No wonder I’m a bit hesitant and look at the fine print now. I see the neurosurgeon this Friday and find out whether not operating is an option.

I also have Irish heritage, with a dad originally from near Cork. I'm not yet used to the idea of getting information and support from people who have dealt with these issues across the globe (to Australia). It's quite amazing.

Thanks,
Booklover

Originally Posted by zookester

Hey ladies,

I haven't posted here in a while but, this post caught my attention.

I have both a medtronic SCS and a medtronic intrathecal pain pump and because of my small frame both stick out a lot! Something I've found to help with this is - KT tape. It really helps stabilize both implants and thus reducing the friction pain/irritation it can cause.

I apply it by starting the adhesion with no tension a couple of inches higher than the implant and then stretching about 50% tension directly over the top and past the implant, ending with no stretch for the last couple of inches. The tape stays on for about 7 days even when it gets wet from showering/bathing. I remove it when it is wet and haven't yet had problems with skin breakdown.

Give it a try you might be surprised..
Tessa

Originally Posted by Jackiey

Hi
I had my unit implanted in Aug 2008 and since then I too lost weight. My battery is in my left buttock also up near the waistband of my trousers.
In February 2009 I had a new battery inserted as the old battery was faulty. It was unpleasant but necessary.

A couple of months ago I went to my Dr. As like you I had more weight loss and I was concerned that the battery had migrated to the top layer of my skin and was 'working its way out'.

My Dr examined me and then did some X-rays to show me that all was well. Yes the battery was very close to the surface but that it was better there than deeper as the remote might not pick up the signal as well as it was. He told me it was well anchored in and it was going nowhere.

He did ask me if I wanted to have it moved but I said absolutely not I dont want more surgery, another surgical site,more scar tissue etc I have gotten used to it now and I'm just careful when I'm doing things not to bang it off anything. And also in what clothes I'm wearing.

To me the less surgery the better and after 7 ops I don't want any more. Try not to worry and I'm sure it will be fine. Any surgery is a risk and each time you are building up scar tissue which itself is another issue.

Take care

Jackie