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Thrombosis of superior vena cava as a complication of transvenous pacemaker treatment
Acta Medica Scandinavica
|January 1, 1982
Insights
Permanent transvenous pacing can cause superior vena cava (SVC) and brachiocephalic vein thrombosis. Anticoagulant therapy effectively treated SVC syndrome, with no residual symptoms after 36 months.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
- Medical Complications
Background:
- Permanent transvenous pacing is a common cardiac intervention.
- Complications, though rare, can arise from indwelling pacing leads.
- Thrombotic events in central veins are a potential risk.
Observation:
- A patient developed thrombotic obstruction of the superior vena cava and left brachiocephalic vein.
- This complication was associated with permanent transvenous pacing.
- The patient presented with symptoms consistent with superior vena cava syndrome.
Findings:
- Superior vena cava syndrome symptoms were successfully managed with anticoagulant therapy.
- The patient remained asymptomatic from venous obstruction 36 months post-complication.
- This suggests a favorable long-term outcome with appropriate treatment.
Implications:
- Highlights a rare but serious complication of transvenous pacing.
- Emphasizes the efficacy of anticoagulation in managing central venous thrombosis.
- Informs clinical practice regarding monitoring and management of pacing-related venous complications.
Abstract:
A complication of permanent transvenous pacing leading to thrombotic obstruction of the superior vena cava and left brachiocephalic vein is reported. Symptoms of the superior vena cava syndrome were successfully treated with anticoagulants. The patient has no symptoms of venous obstruction 36 months after the complication.