Inadvertent malposition of a transvenous pacing lead in the left ventricle

A Engström1, B Holmberg, A Månsson

  • 1Medicinkliniken, Hjärtsektionen Kalmar Länssjukhus, Lasarettsvägen, 391 85 Kalmar, Sweden.

Insights

A pacemaker lead was mistakenly placed in the left ventricle via an open foramen ovale and mitral valve. The patient was anticoagulated and the lead remained in place without complications for 16 months.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Medical Devices
  • Electrophysiology

Background:

  • Pacemaker lead placement is a common cardiac procedure.
  • Accidental malpositioning can lead to significant complications.

Observation:

  • A pacemaker lead was inadvertently advanced into the left ventricle.
  • The lead traversed an open foramen ovale and the mitral valve.

Findings:

  • The patient received anticoagulation therapy.
  • The malpositioned lead was intentionally left in situ.
  • No clinical complications were observed during a 16-month follow-up.

Implications:

  • This case suggests that conservative management with anticoagulation may be a viable option for certain pacemaker lead malpositions.
  • It highlights the importance of careful lead placement and monitoring.
  • Further research is needed to establish guidelines for managing such rare events.

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