Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
16:40
A New Single Chamber Implantable Defibrillator with Atrial Sensing: A Practical Demonstration of Sensing and Ease of Implantation
Published on: February 28, 2012
27.0K
Unexpected Coronary Sinus Embolization of a Leadless Pacemaker due to Initial Device Failure: A Case Report
Yutaro Oshima1, Tsuyoshi Nozue1, Masahiro Katamine1
1Department of Cardiology Yokohama Sakae Kyosai Hospital Yokohama Kanagawa Japan.
Clinical Case Reports
|March 30, 2026
Summary
Leadless pacemaker implantation can lead to device embolization. A double-snare retrieval technique successfully removed an embolized Micra pacemaker, enabling successful reimplantation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Leadless pacemakers offer reduced complications compared to traditional transvenous systems.
- However, potential complications include device dislodgement and embolization into vasculature.
- Ensuring secure device fixation is critical for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of leadless pacemaker embolization into the coronary sinus.
- To describe the successful retrieval and reimplantation of the device.
- To emphasize the importance of meticulous implantation technique and troubleshooting strategies.
Main Methods:
- A case report of an 81-year-old male patient with atrial fibrillation and bradycardia.
- Micra leadless pacemaker implantation was performed.
- Device embolization to the coronary sinus occurred due to inner shaft damage and inadequate tine fixation.
- Successful retrieval was achieved using a double-snare technique.
- A new Micra device was subsequently implanted.
Main Results:
- The embolized Micra pacemaker was successfully retrieved from the coronary sinus using a double-snare technique.
- A new leadless pacemaker was implanted without immediate complications.
- The patient tolerated the procedure and retrieval well.
Conclusions:
- Meticulous leadless pacemaker deployment technique is crucial to prevent complications.
- Thorough intraprocedural assessment of device attachment is essential.
- The double-snare technique is an effective troubleshooting strategy for unexpected device embolization.
Related Concept Videos
01:16ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias I: Sinus Arrhythmias
Arrhythmias are disturbances in the heart's rhythm that lead to abnormal heartbeats. These irregularities can originate from different parts of the heart and are classified based on their origin and nature.
Types of Arrhythmias
Sinus Node Arrhythmias
Sinus Bradycardia: Originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node, sinus bradycardia involves slower impulses, resulting in a heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute (bpm). Causes include sleep, vagal stimulation, beta-blockers, hypothyroidism, and...
Types of Arrhythmias
Sinus Node Arrhythmias
Sinus Bradycardia: Originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node, sinus bradycardia involves slower impulses, resulting in a heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute (bpm). Causes include sleep, vagal stimulation, beta-blockers, hypothyroidism, and...
01:30Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) encompasses a spectrum of heart conditions caused by sudden obstruction of coronary arteries, typically resulting from the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque and subsequent thrombus (blood clot) formation. This obstruction can lead to partial or complete blockage of blood flow, causing varying degrees of myocardial ischemia or infarction.ACS includes the following clinical entities:Unstable Angina (UA)Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)ST-Elevation...
01:19Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
01:30Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
01:30Introduction Cardiac Emergencies
Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
01:30Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...