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Analysis of set screw and side-lock connector reliability
G F Tyers1, R Sanders, P Mills
1Division of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE
|November 1, 1992
Summary
This study compared pacemaker lead connectors, finding both set screw and side-lock types reliable. Side-lock connectors showed a lower complication rate, suggesting potential advantages in pacing procedures.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Pacemaker lead-to-header interfaces are critical for device function.
- Complications at the connector can necessitate lead revisions or device replacements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the complication rates of set screw versus side-lock pacemaker lead connectors.
- To evaluate the long-term reliability of different connector types.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 649 pacing procedures from 1980-1990.
- Analysis of complications associated with set screw and side-lock connector types.
- Follow-up periods up to 12 years for set screw and 5 years for side-lock connectors.
Main Results:
- 14 complications (3.1%) occurred in 459 set screw connectors.
- 1 complication (1.2%) occurred in 82 side-lock connectors.
- Both connector types demonstrated reliability over their respective follow-up periods.
Conclusions:
- The side-lock connector demonstrated a lower complication rate, though with shorter follow-up and fewer implants.
- Side-lock connectors offer advantages in simplicity, speed, safety, and ease of use.
- Precise IS-1 connector terminal diameter is a limitation for side-lock connectors.