Pseudo-fracture of pacemaker lead due to securing suture: a case report

With improved pacemaker lead design and materials, complications caused by lead problems have decreased. There have been isolated reports of leads severed by suture material but they have been rare. Presented is a case of suture-induced "pseudo-fracture" in a urethane-insulated ventricular tined endocardial lead (Medtronic Model #6971-58). No loss of capture or sensing function has been encountered eight months following initial implantation. It is felt that the softer, stronger urethane permitted compression and resulted in a radiographic suggestion of a fractured lead, but lead integrity does not seem to have compromised. Although this may be an inconsequential radiographic finding, it could lead to an inappropriate lead removal unless it is properly interpreted.