Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2026

07:44
A Porcine Model of Acute Autologous Pulmonary Embolism
Published on: September 6, 2024
Extraction of embolized lead tip from azygous vein using distal embolic protection device
G Stuart Mendenhall1, Samir Saba
1Cardiac Electrophysiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. gsmenden@post.harvard.edu
Abstract:
Indwelling pacemaker or defibrillator leads are often extracted with use of a cutting laser sheath. We report embolization of a tined pacemaker lead tip into the azygous vein, with the use of a distal embolization protection device to retrieve the fragment. Creative and non-traditional use of a filter-based device may assist in retrieval of embolized material.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Venous thrombosis requires effective prevention and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce potential complications.Prevention StrategiesHealthcare providers must prioritize preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) for all adult patients upon admission. Interventions depend on bleeding and thrombosis risk, medical history, current medications, diagnoses, planned procedures, and patient preferences. Patients on bed rest should change positions every two hours and, if not...
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Diagnosing Pulmonary EmbolismDiagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) involves clinical assessment and advanced imaging tests. The preferred diagnostic tool is the spiral (helical) CT scan or CT angiography (CTA), which uses intravenous contrast media to visualize the pulmonary vasculature and identify emboli.A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is an alternative for patients unable to receive contrast media. This scan includes both perfusion and ventilation scanning. Perfusion scanning involves...

