Removing just the pacemaker device and not the lead wires

[berryhound]

I have had a pacemaker for the last twelve years and have been told I don't really need it any longer.
I would like to have it removed but would rather not go through the complicated procedure of having
the wires removed.  Is there any reason I can not just have the device removed? I have been told that
if I got an infection in the pocket where the device is in having the wires in could cause the infection to
spread.  Also with the wires still in could I do an MRI is needed?  Thank you.

[Mom2four85]

I'm not sure of the answer but I'll refer you to the icd forum I'm a member of and I know there are some who have had theirs taken  out - icd support group . o r g - make it a web address or google ICD support group

[jennyfi1234]

Well I cant answer your question, I am curious about this because my brother has a pacemaker and they explained to my parents that your heart can only hold so many wires and they dont remove the them because your heart grows around them. I would assume they by that, that they would leave the ones in your heart as is ,but remove the pocket stuff.  I will be curious to hear what others say.