[Implantation of a pacemaker through persistent left superior vena cava].
Persistent left superior vena is a relatively rare congenital variant. It is, however, the most common variation of the thoracic venous system. Prevalence is estimated in about 0.6 to 1.0% during pacemaker placement. This finding, often incidental, can difficult the lead progression through the left jugular or subclavian routes. This report describes a case of successful pacemaker implantation through a persistent left superior vena. Technical difficulties were overcome using the pacemaker electrode as unipolar lead. Endocavitary ECG recording helped us to guide the lead through the tortuous anatomy. A stable lead position was finally achieved by means of the active fixation system of the pacemaker electrode.
Cardozo Zepeda
Carlos Manuel
CM
Service d' Electrophysiologie, Groupe Hospitalier de I'lntitut Catholique de Lille, Hôpital Saint-Philibert, Lomme, Francia. carlos_cardozo@yahoo.com
Guyomar
Yves
Y
Heuls
Sébastien
S
Graux
Pierre
P
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D013997:Time Factors; D014683:Vena Cava, Superior / Q000002:abnormalities*