Endocardial Pacemaker Implantation in Neonates and Infants
2006
Endocardial Pacemaker Implantation in Neonates and Infants
Sample size: 39
Editorial
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Ayabakan Canan MD, Rosenthal Eric MD FRCP
Primary Institution: Evelina Children’s Hospital, Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital Trust
Conclusion
Endocardial pacing is feasible and effective even in neonates and small infants, making it an acceptable alternative to epicardial systems.
Supporting Evidence
- Endocardial leads have proven to be superior to epicardial leads both mechanically and electrically.
- 86% of patients continued with an endocardial system after a median follow-up of 4.3 years.
- Lead survival was excellent with 87% of patients continuing with the original lead.
Takeaway
Doctors are finding that putting pacemakers inside the hearts of tiny babies can work well, even though it used to be thought safer to put them outside.
Limitations
The experience with endocardial pacing in neonates and infants is limited and lacks directly comparative data with epicardial pacing.
Participant Demographics
Infants weighing ≤ 10 kg.
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