OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical characteristics and management of the acute and subacute cardiac perforation by pacing leads.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed clinical data of patients with acute and subacute right ventricular perforation by pacemaker lead occurred in our hospital between 2006 and 2011.

RESULTS

Seven cases of confirmed acute and subacute right ventricular perforation by pacemaker lead were enrolled. The perforation rate was 0.15%, 2 cases of perforation occurred during the procedure. The main manifestation was low blood pressure and pericardial effusion. These two patients with cardiac tamponade underwent urgent percutaneous pericardiocentesis and patients recovered without complication. The remaining 5 cases of perforation occurred within 4-16 days after the pacemaker implantation. The main symptoms were diaphragm stimulation and chest pain. Signs of leads dysfunction were observed in all 5 patients. The diagnosis of cardiac perforation was confirmed by chest X-ray, echocardiography, or computed tomography. In all these 5 patients, the leads were removed by simple traction under fluoroscopic guidance with surgical backup support, no complication was observed.

CONCLUSION

Acute and subacute right ventricular perforation is a rare but serious complication of pacemaker implantation. In most patients, the leads can be safely removed under fluoroscopic guidance with surgical backup support and close monitoring.