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Retroaortic abscess: an unusual complication of a retained epicardial pacing wire

Deane E Smith1, Abe DeAnda, Christopher W Towe

  • 1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.

Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
|November 16, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Retained temporary epicardial pacing wires can cause rare infectious complications. A retroaortic abscess developed 3 years after surgery for tricuspid valve endocarditis due to these retained wires.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Surgical Complications

Background:

  • Temporary epicardial pacing wires are commonly used post-cardiac surgery.
  • Infectious complications from retained pacing wires are infrequent but serious.

Observation:

  • A patient presented with a focal retroaortic abscess.
  • The abscess manifested 3 years after undergoing surgery for tricuspid valve endocarditis.

Findings:

  • Retained temporary epicardial pacing wires were identified as the cause of the retroaortic abscess.
  • This case highlights a delayed presentation of infection linked to retained surgical material.

Implications:

  • Emphasizes the importance of complete removal of temporary epicardial pacing wires.
  • Suggests considering retained pacing wires in the differential diagnosis of late-presenting retroaortic infections.
  • Highlights the need for vigilance in long-term patient follow-up after cardiac surgery.

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