Identification and management of right ventricular perforation using pacemaker and cardioverter-defibrillator leads:...

Right ventricular perforation is a rare but serious complication of permanent pacemaker and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation, with a reported prevalence rate of 0.1-6%. Generally, there is a high incidence of asymptomatic lead perforation with otherwise normal function. Some patients present with a stabbing chest pain and shortness of breath or pacemaker malfunction. However, in some cases, tamponade or adjacent tissue injury may be seen. The exact risk factors for lead perforation are not yet clear. Furthermore, there are many controversies in the management of lead perforation. Extraction of an asymptomatic, incidentally detected, chronically perforating lead does not seem to be necessary. Patients with symptoms or device malfunction will require treatment appropriate for their problem.