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Leadless Pacemaker Implantation in an Adolescent with Durable LVAD Support.
Taylor S Howard1, Michael A Bruno2, Hari Tunuguntla3
1Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children'S Hospital, 6651 Main Street, E1920, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. tshoward@bcm.edu.
This study reports the first leadless pacemaker implantation in a pediatric patient with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). This innovative approach successfully managed atrioventricular block, enabling outpatient care for a complex young patient.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Electrophysiology
- Mechanical Circulatory Support
Background:
- Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) use is growing in pediatric patients, who often have complex conditions requiring interventions like atrioventricular (AV) block treatment.
- Leadless pacemakers offer potential benefits, including reduced device-related complications, but their use in pediatric LVAD patients is undocumented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the successful implantation of a leadless pacemaker in a pediatric patient with LVAD support.
- To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of leadless pacing in this complex patient population.
Main Methods:
- A 17-year-old patient with dilated cardiomyopathy and continuous flow LVAD support underwent implantation of a leadless pacemaker to manage AV block.
- The procedure's success and the patient's subsequent clinical course were monitored.
Main Results:
- Successful leadless pacemaker implantation was achieved in the pediatric LVAD patient.
- The implantation effectively treated the patient's AV block, facilitating a transition to outpatient care.
Conclusions:
- Leadless pacemaker implantation is a viable option for pediatric patients with LVADs requiring pacing for AV block.
- This approach may improve patient management and enable earlier discharge in complex pediatric mechanical circulatory support cases.
