Noncatheter-based delivery of a single-chamber lumenless pacing lead in small children

The model 3830 lead (SelectSecure Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) is a bipolar, fixed-screw, 4.1-F pacing lead designed for site-selective pacing. Implantation is usually performed using an 8-F deflectable catheter system. This catheter is not ideal for smaller children because of both the sheath size and the relatively large deflected curves. We describe a simpler noncatheter-based delivery system in seven children.

A 4.1-F SelectSecure lead was introduced via a 5-F SafeSheath (Thomas Medical, Malvern, PA, USA) placed in the left subclavian vein. The SelectSecure lead was passed into the inferior vena cava (IVC) and a loop created, which was then withdrawn into the right atrium. Once in position, the lead was screwed into the myocardium, the SafeSheath was peeled off, and the lead connected to the generator.

From March 2005 until September 2006, five right atrial leads and two right ventricular leads were implanted in seven patients (six female) with a median weight of 15 kg (8.1-19.4). All leads were successfully placed with excellent pacing thresholds. The median screening time was 7.1 minutes (4.8-11.4) with a median radiation dose of 83 cGycm(2). There were no procedural complications and no lead displacements seen on a median follow-up of 10 months.

Delivery of the 4.1-F SelectSecure pacing lead to the right heart is possible using a noncatheter-based delivery system. This is effective and safe and does not require the use of a larger delivery system. This allows these thin isodiametric pacing leads to be used advantageously in small children.