Surgical lead extraction for pacemaker infection with tricuspid valve repair: A case report

Pacemaker lead infections with large vegetation and extensive adhesions pose significant procedural risks during surgical extraction. A 71-year-old woman with a 21-year-old pacemaker developed recurrent Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. She underwent successful surgical lead extraction performed under cardiopulmonary bypass, with concomitant tricuspid valve repair, due to the presence of a large vegetation and strong adhesions to the right ventricular myocardium and tricuspid valve. Surgical lead extraction under cardiopulmonary bypass should be considered a viable option in patients with long-standing pacemaker lead implantation or large vegetation to reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.