Anatomical Insights and Clinical Outcomes of the Interpectoral Pocket Technique for Exposed Cardiac Pacemaker Revision

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the interpectoral pocket technique in the management of exposed cardiac pacemakers, a complication increasingly observed with the rising use of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 20 patients who underwent revision surgeries for exposed cardiac pacemakers using the interpectoral pocket technique. Data were collected regarding patient demographics, comorbidities, etiology of exposure, preoperative management, surgical procedure, postoperative care, and follow-up results. Results: The overall success rate of the interpectoral pocket technique was 95%. Out of the 20 patients, 3 patients (15%) experienced minor complications, while 1 patient (5%) required additional revision surgeries. No major complications or mortality were reported during the follow-up period. Conclusions: Our study indicates that the interpectoral pocket technique for exposed cardiac pacemaker management is effective and safe. It has the potential in reducing CIED-related complications, improving therapeutic strategies, and lessening the economic burden. However, larger prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.

Keywords

• cardiac implantable electronic devices
• device exposure
• pacemaker
• revision surgery