[Complications associated with nonfunctioning pacemaker electrodes retained within the cardiovascular system].

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the complications in patients with functionless pacing leads retained in the cardiovascular system.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively studied 39 patients: 31 underwent surgery for electrical or mechanical failure (group I) and eight for cutaneous pocket infection (group II). The follow-up was 45 +/- 34 months.

RESULTS

Only one patient (3%) from group I presented infectious complications probably related to the retained pacing lead. Seven patients (87%) in group II presented recurrence of the infection with persistent fever and/or septicemia due to skin erosion and unnoticed pacing lead infection (p < 0.0005). Removal of the infected generator was performed in 8/39 (21%) of the patients. Thoracotomy to explant the infected retained leads was required in five of them (62%). No patient presented lead migration or venous thrombosis during the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Retained pacing leads in the cardiovascular system are well tolerated. However, in spite of adequate antibiotic treatment, patients with local and pacemaker system infection may present recurrence of the infection with persistent fever and/or septicemia. Early surgical pacemaker system removal is recommended in these patients due to the high morbidity.