Key result
Cap-and-abandon approach successfully manages myocardial perforation from Reverse Reel Syndrome lead migration.
Why the study?
Reverse Reel Syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices involving abnormal pacemaker lead displacement and migration.
Case Report (n=1)
No
Reverse Reel syndrome is a rare but life-threatening complication of pacemaker implantation that can be successfully managed with a 'cap and abandon' strategy and new lead implantation in high-risk elderly patients.
May warrant early post-implant surveillance in frail elderly patients; this case leaves open the incidence and prevention of Reverse Reel syndrome.
Reverse Reel Syndrome represents a rare but potentially life-threatening complication in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). This condition, characterized by the abnormal displacement and distal migration of pacemaker leads, can lead to severe adverse events due to tissue and organ damage caused by the sharp tip of an active lead. Our case report highlights a unique instance of Reverse Reel Syndrome in an elderly female patient with early ventricular pacemaker lead distal migration resulting in life-threatening right ventricular myocardial perforation and left-sided liquidopneumothorax. Discussing the patient's characteristics, clinical presentation, and therapeutic considerations as essential factors in managing this complication, we emphasized the importance of preventive measures during implantation to mitigate risks associated with CIED complications.
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Paulić et al. (2025) conducted a case report in Reverse Reel Syndrome / Myocardial perforation (n=1). Migrated ventricular pacemaker lead (Reverse Reel Syndrome) was evaluated. Early distal migration of a ventricular pacemaker lead (Reverse Reel Syndrome) caused life-threatening myocardial perforation and liquidopneumothorax in a 91-year-old female, successfully managed with a cap and abandon strategy.
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