Leadless and extracardiac cardiac rhythm management systems: the next generation of pacing and defibrillation

The complications associated with the use of transvenous leads and device pockets have been a major drawback in the use of traditional cardiac implantable electronic devices. Infections, venous obstruction, and problems in device extraction have been some of the issues. Leadless pacing systems and extravascular implantable cardioverter defibrillators have been developed to overcome some of the issues.

A narrative literature review was performed on the available literature using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar databases to search for relevant studies published between January 2000 and January 2026. Clinical trials, registries, and observational studies assessing the performance, complications, and patient selection for these devices were reviewed. The current literature shows high success rates of implantation, low infection risk, and efficacy of defibrillation and pacing with these devices, although challenges exist in the form of battery life, incomplete cardiac resynchronization, and the strategy of device succession.

Leadless and extravascular cardiac rhythm management systems are a significant move toward reducing complications associated with leads and maintaining vascular access. The future use of these systems will depend on advancements in device longevity, pacing functions, cost effectiveness, lifetime device management, and evidence that reductions in lead and pocket-related morbidity are not offset by new long-term management burdens.