Hybrid Minimally Invasive Approach for Transvenous Lead Extraction: A Feasible Technique in High-Risk Patients

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Submitted by LEAD connection on Mon, 2017-03-20 15:19
Year Published: 
2017

Bontempi L, Vassanelli F, Cerini M, Bisleri G, Repossini A, Giroletti L, Inama L, Salghetti F, Liberto D, Giacopelli D, Raweh A, Muneretto C, Curnis A.

J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. 2017 Jan 7. [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract

Introduction: Despite the overall safety, transvenous lead extraction (TLE) remains a challenging procedure with inherent risks, where surgery can still be required in elective cases. In this study, we report our experience with a minimally invasive "hybrid" approach, defined as a procedure performed by an electrophysiologist with the support of a cardiac surgeon in the same operative session.

Methods and Results: We reported 12 cases of planned hybrid lead extraction; minithoracotomy and thoracoscopy were performed on 10 (83%) and 2 (17%) patients, respectively. A total of 25 leads out of 27 (median lead age 19 years) were successfully extracted with laser, mechanical or combined transvenous sheath. In 3 patients, the direct monitoring of vascular and myocardial integrity allowed for prompt treatment of potential vascular injury during the lead extraction maneuvers. Mean in-hospital stay was 4 ± 2 days. There were no major intraoperative complications and no deaths occurred after 30 days' follow-up.

Conclusion: The hybrid approach, with minithoracotomy or thoracoscopy, is feasible and it might increase the safety in the most challenging TLE procedures: the minimally invasive surgical intervention allows for continuous monitoring of the critical cardiac structures and prompt treatment of potential complications.

Link to abstract on PubMed