Lead Extraction Lecture Series

Introduction:  The increasing number of implanted transvenous pacemakers, implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs), and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) over the last two decades has led to the rising need for lead extractions. Over time, these leads have to be removed due to structural defects, infections, or the need to upgrade a pre-existing system. Chronic leads may develop a dense fibrotic and sometimes calcific process within the thin-walled venous structures or the endocardial surface of the heart or tricuspid valve, which can make them difficult to extract.

Given the technical complexity and risk of life-threatening complications that can arise from lead extractions, a systematic approach needs to be taken prior to performing the procedure by a multidisciplinary team.

This three-part lecture series illustrates and reviews a compendium of lead extraction case studies.

Target Audience:  This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of Electrophysiologists, Electrophysiology Alllied professionals and Fellows.

Disclosure and Resolution of Conflicts of Interest
The faculty report no conflicts of interest for the presented material.

Ulrika Birgersdotter-Green, MD Professor of Medicine Division of Cardiology University of California, San Diego Play Part I Play Part II Play Part III

Transvenous Lead Extration: A Step-by-Step Approach

1SUBHA L. VARAHAN, MD, 2VICOTR PRETORIUS, MBchB and 1ULRIKA BIRGERSDOTTER-GREEN, MD

Cardiothoracic Departments of 1Cardiac Electrophysiology and 2Cardiothoracic Surgery University of California, San Diego

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