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Inappropriate high-rate ventricular pacing in a patient with a defibrillator
S Zaim1, H Sunthorn, J J Adatte
1Division of Cardiology, University Hospital of Geneva, Switzerland. szaimmd@hotmail.com
Summary
A patient experienced high-rate ventricular pacing due to implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) malfunction, preventing communication and treatment. Disconnecting the ICD was the only solution for this unique electrical circuit problem.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are crucial for managing life-threatening arrhythmias.
- Device malfunctions can lead to significant patient risk and require prompt intervention.
Observation:
- A patient presented with sustained high-rate ventricular pacing attributed to an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) defect.
- The malfunctioning ICD failed to communicate with its programmer and could not deliver therapy for ventricular fibrillation.
Findings:
- Immediate lead disconnection was the sole effective measure to resolve the pacing issue.
- Technical analysis revealed an unusual electrical circuit malfunction, distinct from typical runaway pacing causes.
Implications:
- This case highlights a novel ICD malfunction, expanding the understanding of device failures.
- It underscores the importance of recognizing and managing rare device-related complications in cardiac care.