[A rare pacemaker complication of a perforation by a ventricular screw electrode causing hemothorax]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Myocardial perforation by pacemaker electrodes is an exceedingly rare complication.
• This complication carries a significant risk of cardiac tamponade.

Observation:

• A case of ventricular screw-in electrode perforation is presented.
• The electrode migrated through the pericardium, leading to bleeding into the left thoracic cavity.

Findings:

• Two-dimensional echocardiography, alongside clinical, electrocardiographic, and X-ray findings, allows for reliable non-invasive diagnosis.
• This diagnostic approach can identify myocardial perforation and associated complications.

Implications:

• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for managing pacemaker-related myocardial perforation.
• Non-invasive imaging techniques are vital for detecting rare but life-threatening cardiac device complications.