[Tricuspid Valve Replacement without Removing Transvenous Pacemaker Lead]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Cardiac Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Transvenous pacemaker leads can cause severe tricuspid regurgitation through direct injury or interference with valve function.
• Current treatment involves tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) after lead exchange, but this carries risks like poor lead threshold and difficult lead removal.

Observation:

• A novel technique for tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) was developed that does not require removal of the existing transvenous pacemaker lead.
• The transvenous lead was successfully secured to the posterior leaflet annulus during the TVR procedure.

Findings:

• Successful tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) was achieved without the need to remove the transvenous pacemaker lead.
• This modified approach simplifies the surgical process and potentially mitigates complications associated with lead manipulation.

Implications:

• This technique offers a viable alternative for patients experiencing tricuspid regurgitation secondary to pacemaker lead complications.
• It highlights a potential advancement in managing pacemaker-induced cardiac issues, improving patient management strategies.