Implantation of permanent transvenous pacemaker via subclavian vein.
A favorable overall experience was found with permanent transvenous cardiac pacing using a direct venipuncture for entry into the subclavian vein. The method allows a rapid and relatively atraumatic introduction of a variety of transvenous pacemaker electrodes. However, a fatal complication developed that was caused by unrecognized puncture of the left pulmonary artery in an elderly patient. This was the result of a technical error and emphasizes that experience in subclavian venipuncture is essential to avoid the complications of this approach.
D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial; D011651:Pulmonary Artery / Q000293:injuries; D011677:Punctures / Q000009:adverse effects; D013350:Subclavian Vein / Q000601:surgery*