Extraction of Sterile Leads Is the Preferred Approach Rather than Implanting a New Lead

Publication date: Available online 19 June 2015 Source:Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics Author(s): Emilce Trucco, Lluis MontTeaser Lead malfunction is a common problem in implantable cardiac device patients and is expected to increase with the aging of leads. There is a weak indication for extraction of superfluous leads with the potential for cardiac implantable electronic device interference and abandoned or redundant leads; much remains to be learned from clinical practice. Lead extraction, although safe in experienced hands, remains a high-risk procedure, especially in lower-volume centers and/or when performed by lower-volume operators. Therefore, a strategy of abandoning nonfunctioning leads is reasonable, and lead extractions should be reserved for cases with system infection or high lead burden.
Source: Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics - Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
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