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Dynamic tricuspid valve insufficiency produced by a right ventricular thrombus from a pacemaker
Chest
|October 1, 1978
Summary
A rare complication of permanent right ventricular endocardial electrode wires is acquired tricuspid valve incompetence due to mobile thrombus. This diagnosis requires careful consideration and was confirmed via angiography and surgery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Electrophysiology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
Background:
- Permanent endocardial electrode placement in the right ventricle is a common procedure for cardiac pacing.
- Complications associated with indwelling devices can occur, though some are exceedingly rare.
- Tricuspid valve dysfunction can arise from various etiologies, including device-related issues.
Observation:
- A mobile thrombus was found attached to a permanent right ventricular endocardial electrode wire.
- This thrombus was identified as the cause of acquired tricuspid valve incompetence.
Findings:
- The case highlights a rare cause of tricuspid regurgitation.
- Diagnosis was established through angiography.
- Surgical confirmation of the thrombus and valve dysfunction was achieved.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider thrombus formation on pacemaker leads as a potential cause of tricuspid valve incompetence.
- Awareness of this rare complication is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
- This underscores the importance of monitoring patients with long-term cardiac electronic devices.