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Extraction of Implantable Cardiac Electronic Devices

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Abstract

With the increasing numbers of cardiac implantable devices in use, lead extraction has become a critical procedure in remedying device-related infections and complications. Lead extraction technology has grown considerably over the past two decades from simple traction maneuvers to the use of powered, telescoping sheaths equipped with laser technology. Data from single center experiences and randomized control trials have continued to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the most current lead extraction technology. Still, major complications occur in less than 1% of patients. Patient preparation and in-place laboratory protocols are important for the prevention of complications and the rapid diagnosis and treatment of life-threatening complications should they arise.

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Abbreviations

LExICon:

Lead Extraction in Contemporary Settings

MADIT-CRT:

Multicenter Automatic Defibrillator Implantation Trial with Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy

PLEXES:

Pacing Lead Extraction with the Excimer Sheath

REVERSE:

Resynchronization Reverses Remodeling in Systolic Left Ventricular Dysfunction

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Disclosure

Conflicts of interest: J. Rickard: none; B.L. Wilkoff: is an unpaid consultant for Medtronic Inc., St. Jude Medical Inc., and Spectranetics Inc.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Sydell and Arnold Miller Family Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA

    John Rickard

  2. Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, 9500 Euclid Ave Desk J2-2, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA

    Bruce L. Wilkoff

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  1. John Rickard
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  2. Bruce L. Wilkoff
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Correspondence to Bruce L. Wilkoff.

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Rickard, J., Wilkoff, B.L. Extraction of Implantable Cardiac Electronic Devices. Curr Cardiol Rep 13, 407–414 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-011-0198-x

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