Inadvertent malposition of a permanent pacemaker ventricular lead into the left ventricle which was initially missed and diagnosed two years later: a case report
2011
Misplaced Pacemaker Lead in the Left Ventricle: A Case Report
Sample size: 1
publication
Evidence: low
Author Information
Author(s): Zaher Medhat F, Azab Basem N, Bogin Marc B, Bekheit Soad G
Primary Institution: Cardiology Department, Staten Island University Hospital
Conclusion
Inadvertent insertion of pacing wires into the left ventricle can occur without symptoms and may be overlooked during routine checks.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient remained asymptomatic for two years despite the malpositioned lead.
- A 12-lead ECG showed RBBB morphology indicating the lead's position.
- The decision was made to continue anticoagulation therapy instead of lead removal.
Takeaway
Sometimes, doctors accidentally put a pacemaker wire in the wrong part of the heart, but the person can still feel fine for a long time.
Methodology
Case report detailing the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of a patient with a misplaced pacemaker lead.
Limitations
The exact incidence of lead misplacement is unknown and may be underestimated due to underreporting.
Participant Demographics
60-year-old Caucasian man.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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