Coronary artery fistula formation secondary to permanent pacemaker placement.
We present the findings in two patients who apparently developed a coronary artery fistula as a complication of an endocardial pacing electrode. This complication may actually be occurring more frequently than recognized because the patient may be asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic and therefore not undergo a coronary angiogram. Awareness of this potentially serious complication is important and stresses the need for proper electrode placement without excess pressure on the tip.
Saeian
K
K
Division of Cardiology, Milwaukee County Medical Complex, West Wisconsin.
Vellinga
T
T
Troup
P
P
Wetherbee
J
J
D002304:Cardiac Pacing, Artificial / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009202:Cardiomyopathies / Q000209:etiology*; D003330:Coronary Vessel Anomalies / Q000209:etiology*; D005402:Fistula / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial