An Itchy Lead: First Reported Case of Ventricular Pacemaker Lead Self-Extraction

J Atr Fibrillation. 2018 Aug 31;11(2):2052. doi: 10.4022/jafib.2052. eCollection 2018 Aug.

Abstract

We present a particularly rare case and the first ever report of a ventricular self-extraction in a 98-year old female. Our patient had a past medical history significant for severe Alzheimer's dementia, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, and sick sinus syndrome who was admitted in clinically stable condition following the unwitnessed self-extraction the ventricular lead of her dual chamber pacemaker. This case highlights the potential risks and other clinical challenges of pacemaker and ICD placement in elderly patients and in patients with cognitive impairment.

Keywords: : Ventricular Lead; Atrial Fibrillation; Self-extraction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports