Key result
Helix-fixation leadless pacemaker retrieval remains feasible but challenging at 9 years post-implant.
Why the study?
Long-term management of leadless pacemakers may require device retrieval for replacement or upgrade, but retrieval poses unique challenges including device capture during cardiac motion and fibrous encapsulation.
Case Report (n=1)
May support selective late retrieval of helix-fixation leadless pacemakers; leaves open questions on generalizability and extraction safety.
Leadless pacemakers (LP) are now established as a safe and effective alternative to traditional, transvenous pacemakers for single-chamber ventricular pacing.1,2 Although eliminating the transvenous pacing lead and pulse generator pocket may streamline LP delivery, long-term patient management may ultimately necessitate LP retrieval for device replacement or upgrade. LP retrieval may pose unique challenges, including the need to physically capture the device in-motion during cardiac contraction, as well as potential fibrous encapsulation which may impede this contact and the subsequent retrieval from the myocardium.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Neužil et al. (2023) conducted a case report in Leadless pacemaker replacement (n=1). Retrieval and replacement of a helix-fixation leadless pacemaker was evaluated. Retrieval and replacement of a helix-fixation leadless pacemaker at 9 years post-implant highlights the potential feasibility and challenges of removing encapsulated devices from the myocardium.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: