Pacemaker Lead Displacement: Mechanisms And Management
2003
Pacemaker Lead Displacement: Mechanisms And Management
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Fuertes Beatriz MD, Toquero Jorge MD, Arroyo-Espliguero Ramon MD, Lozano Ignacio F MD
Primary Institution: Hospital Puerta de Hierro, Madrid, Spain
Conclusion
Lead displacement is a complication that must be considered for early intervention, and careful surgical techniques can help prevent it.
Supporting Evidence
- Early displacements are more frequent than late displacements and usually affect atrial leads.
- The incidence of early displacements is 1% in VVI pacemakers and 5.2% in DDD pacemakers.
- Complications rate is estimated among 5% to 13% for epicardial and endocardial systems.
- Micro-displacements as short as 1-2 mm cannot be seen in the X ray.
Takeaway
Sometimes, the wires that connect a pacemaker to the heart can move out of place, which can cause problems. Doctors need to be careful when putting in pacemakers to avoid this.
Limitations
Studies on the incidence and handling of lead displacement are surprisingly scarce.
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