Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
07:44
Epicardial Outgrowth Culture Assay and Ex Vivo Assessment of Epicardial-derived Cell Migration
Published on: March 18, 2016
Intraperitoneal migration of epicardial pacemakers
José García-Bengochea1, Miguel Caínzos, Angel L Fernández
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, University Hospital, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
Texas Heart Institute Journal
|October 20, 2007
Summary
Epicardial pacemaker leads can migrate into the abdomen, causing serious complications like bowel obstruction. This case highlights the need to consider lead migration in patients with abdominal pain after pacemaker implantation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Epicardial pacing systems involve leads and generators placed abdominally.
- Intraperitoneal migration of these components is a rare but serious complication.
- Small-bowel obstruction can result from lead migration and adhesions.
Observation:
- An 83-year-old male presented with symptoms of small-bowel obstruction.
- The patient had a history of an implanted epicardial pacing system.
- Intraperitoneal migration of the pacing system was diagnosed.
Findings:
- Urgent laparotomy was performed to address the small-bowel obstruction.
- Constrictive lead adhesions were identified and freed.
- A new pacemaker generator was successfully implanted in the abdominal wall.
Implications:
- This case represents the first reported instance of pacemaker migration causing bowel obstruction requiring laparotomy in an adult.
- Understanding predisposing factors is crucial for preventing such serious complications.
- Further research into the mechanisms of epicardial pacemaker migration is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Pericarditis I: Introduction
Pericarditis is defined as the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, sac-like membrane surrounding the heart. This condition can cause significant chest pain and other symptoms, often necessitating medical intervention. The pericardium has two layers: the inner visceral layer and the outer parietal layer, separated by a small amount of fluid that reduces friction during heartbeats.Types of PericarditisPericarditis can be classified into several types based on the duration and nature of the...
01:13Location and Orientation of the Heart
The human heart, despite its modest size and weight, is an organ of remarkable strength and endurance. Roughly the size of a fist, the heart weighs between 250 and 350 grams and is nestled within the mediastinum, the medial cavity of the thorax. It extends obliquely for about 12 to 14 cm, resting on the superior surface of the diaphragm. The heart is positioned anterior to the vertebral column and posterior to the sternum, with two-thirds of its mass lying to the left of the midsternal line.