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Cardiac strangulation from epicardial pacemaker leads: diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
Daiji Takeuchi1, Yasuko Tomizawa
1Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 8-1 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8666, Japan, ptakeuci@hij.twmu.ac.jp.
Insights
Cardiac strangulation from epicardial leads is a rare, lethal complication in children receiving pacemakers. Prompt diagnosis and lead removal are crucial for patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Epicardial pacemaker implantation in children carries a risk of cardiac strangulation.
- This complication, though rare, can be life-threatening.
- Growing children are particularly susceptible due to anatomical changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review previously reported cases of cardiac strangulation from epicardial leads in children.
- To discuss the condition from a pediatric cardiologist's perspective.
- To enhance awareness and understanding of this rare complication.
Main Methods:
- Review of ten previously reported cases of cardiac strangulation.
- Analysis of clinical presentations and outcomes.
- Discussion from the viewpoint of pediatric cardiology.
Main Results:
- Cardiac strangulation is a rare but severe complication of epicardial pacemaker leads in pediatric patients.
- Early identification and intervention, including lead removal, are critical for successful patient outcomes.
- Increased awareness among medical professionals is essential.
Conclusions:
- Cardiac strangulation necessitates prompt diagnosis and intervention.
- Pediatric cardiologists play a key role in managing this complication.
- Further awareness initiatives are important for improving patient care.
Abstract:
Cardiac strangulation from epicardial leads is a rare but potentially lethal complication associated with epicardial pacemaker implantation in growing children. Early diagnosis and quick lead removal are required to rescue patients suffering from cardiac strangulation. In April 2013, the Japanese Association for Thoracic Surgery, Japan Society of Arrhythmia and Japan Cardiovascular Surgery Society published information about cardiac strangulation from epicardial leads in children on the home page of each organization's website to increase awareness of this condition Here, we review ten previously reported cases and discuss cardiac strangulation from the point of view of the pediatric cardiologist.
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