Unusual Delayed Complication of Pacemaker Leads
Anupam K Gupta1, Monica I Burgos Claudio2, Nir Hus3,4
1Minimally Invasive Surgery, University of Miami Hospital, Miami, USA.
Cureus
|September 3, 2020
Summary
Displaced pacemaker leads caused chest pain in three patients. Diagnosis required imaging, and lead extraction with heart repair necessitated a pericardial window procedure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Pacemaker implantation is a common procedure for managing cardiac rhythm disorders.
- Displacement of pacemaker leads can lead to significant complications, including chest pain.
Observation:
- Three patients presented with recurrent chest pain attributed to displaced pacemaker leads.
- Repeated emergency room evaluations were initially required for symptom assessment.
Findings:
- Imaging modalities were crucial in diagnosing the precise location of the misplaced ventricular pacemaker leads.
- Surgical intervention, including a pericardial window, was necessary for lead extraction and cardiac defect repair.
Implications:
- This case series highlights the importance of considering lead displacement in patients with pacemakers experiencing chest pain.
- Multidisciplinary management involving cardiologists and electrophysiologists is vital for optimal patient outcomes.
- Timely diagnosis and intervention can prevent serious cardiac complications associated with lead malposition.
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