Superior vena cava syndrome after pacemaker implantation treated with direct oral anticoagulation

Nicola Mumoli1, Antonino Mazzone2, Isabella Evangelista2

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine,, Ospedale Fornaroli, via Donatori Sangue, 50, 20013, Magenta, MI, Italy. nicola.mumoli@asst-ovestmi.it.

Thrombosis Journal
|November 9, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Superior Vena Cava (SVC) syndrome is a rare complication following pacemaker implantation. This case shows complete resolution of SVC syndrome with three months of oral anticoagulation therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Superior Vena Cava (SVC) syndrome is a rare but serious complication post-pacemaker lead implantation.
  • Most patients remain asymptomatic due to collateral circulation development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a case of SVC syndrome following transvenous pacemaker implantation.
  • To highlight the efficacy of oral anticoagulation in resolving pacemaker-induced SVC syndrome.

Main Methods:

  • A case report of a 75-year-old woman.
  • Transvenous pacemaker implantation.
  • Treatment with 3 months of oral anticoagulation.

Main Results:

  • The patient developed SVC syndrome post-pacemaker implantation.
  • Complete resolution of SVC thrombosis was achieved after 3 months of oral anticoagulation.

Conclusions:

  • While malignancy is a common cause of SVC syndrome, iatrogenic causes like intravascular devices are increasing.
  • Transvenous leads may cause intimal injury or stenosis, leading to SVC syndrome.
Abstract

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