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Cardiac stimulation caused by biogalvanic current during pacemaker implantation
Berry M van Gelder1, Frank A Bracke, Albert Meijer
1Department of Cardiology, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|July 26, 2002
Summary
Intermittent ventricular stimulation occurred during biventricular pacing system implantation. This electrical interference was caused by stylet contact with a retractor, not a connected pacemaker.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Electrophysiology
- Medical Device Engineering
Background:
- Biventricular pacing systems are crucial for treating heart failure.
- Proper lead placement is essential for effective device function.
Observation:
- Intermittent ventricular stimulation was noted during lead positioning for biventricular pacing.
- No pacemaker was connected to the leads at the time of observation.
Findings:
- Ventricular capture was provoked by accidental contact between the partially inserted lead stylet and a self-retaining retractor.
- Similar electrical interference was observed originating from the atrial lead.
Implications:
- This highlights a potential risk of unintended cardiac stimulation during device implantation procedures.
- Careful attention to the interaction between surgical tools and implanted leads is necessary.
- Recommendations for modified surgical techniques to prevent such events may be warranted.