Perirenal space implantation of permanent cardiac pacemakers in infants and small children.
Permanent pacemakers were implanted in 40 children aged one day to 17 years. A new technique, necessitating thoracotomy and lumbotomy, is described briefly. Indications were surgical block in 22 (55%) and congenital block in 18 (45%) patients. Five of 40 (12.5%) died. Reoperation was required 4 times: for electrode problems (3), and wound problem (one). No late infection or wire fractures were noted. The time paced ranged from 7 days to 37 months. All of these patients received lithium units.
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006327:Heart Block / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D012086:Reoperation