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[Extraction of infected pacemaker electrode using catheter and snare]
A Mizuno1, H Kurosawa, K Wakabayashi
1Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
Kyobu Geka. the Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery
|October 1, 1993
Summary
A minimally invasive technique using a catheter and snare successfully removed a chronically infected transvenous pacemaker electrode. This method offers a safe and effective solution for complex pacemaker lead extraction, aiding patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Transvenous pacemaker systems are crucial for managing cardiac rhythm disorders.
- Chronic pacemaker lead infections pose significant clinical challenges, often requiring complex removal procedures.
- Previous attempts at partial explantation and antibiotic therapy were insufficient for this patient.
Observation:
- An 85-year-old male patient developed a late-onset infection associated with a transvenous pacemaker electrode implanted years prior.
- The infection persisted despite partial removal of the electrode and antibiotic treatment.
- A novel approach was required to address the persistent infection and indwelling hardware.
Findings:
- A transvenous approach utilizing a catheter and snare was employed for complete extraction of the infected pacemaker electrode.
- The procedure was technically successful, leading to the complete removal of the problematic lead.
- The patient experienced an uneventful recovery following the electrode extraction.
Implications:
- Catheter and snare extraction represents a viable and effective minimally invasive technique for removing chronically implanted transvenous pacemaker electrodes.
- This approach may reduce the morbidity associated with traditional open-chest extraction methods for infected leads.
- Further research into the efficacy and safety of this technique in larger patient cohorts is warranted.