Long-term follow-up of the patients with pacemaker leads implanted through persistent left superior vena cava

Abstract

Introduction/Objective. Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) is the most common congenital malformation of the thoracic venous system and may often complicate cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) lead implantation. The purpose of this study was to assess feasibility and safety of CIED lead implantation through PLSVC and its long-term efficacy. Methods. This is a retrospective observational study performed in a tertiary center from July 2005 to July 2019 among patients with fully successful implantation of all intended CIED leads through PLSVC. Results. CIED implantation was successfully completed with left-side approach in 26 of 32 (81.3%) patients with PLSVC. The average implantation time was 62, 73.5, 120, 74, 103.3, and 130 minutes and the average fluoroscopy time was 13.3, 20.8, 35.7, 17.1, 45.6, and 42.6 minutes for single and dual-chamber pacemakers, ICD-VR, ICD-DR, CRT-P, and CRT-D devices, respectively. The average follow-up period was 43.5 ± 29.9 months. During the follow-up period no CIED leads-related complications were noticed. Conclusion. The results of our study showed that the presence of PLSVC is not an obstacle for CIED implantation. The long-term follow-up proved stability of CIED leads implanted through PLSVC.

Keywords

• persistent left superior vena cava
• cardiac implantable electronic device
• lead
• implantation