Effect of pacing/sensing lead addition vs add-on ICD lead implantation
for lead failure on the tricuspid valve function: a single center
experience
Abstract
Background: The development or progression of tricuspid
regurgitation (TR) following the implantation of cardiovascular
implantable electronic devices (CIED) represents a significant concern.
Although the link between transvalvular lead placement and TR is well
established, further research is required to elucidate the underlying
factors that predispose patients to develop patient-related and
lead-induced TR. The impact of the number of leads passing through the
tricuspid valve and the lead diameter on the severity of tricuspid
regurgitation remains unclear. This study investigated the effect of
adding a pacing/ sensing lead (PSL) or an add-on ICD lead implantation
on tricuspid valve function. Methods: In this retrospective,
single-center, case-control study, all ICD implantation patients, in
cases performed by one of these authors, presenting with lead failure
were screened. Echocardiographic reports of patients who underwent
additional PSL or ICD lead implantation were reviewed. Results:
A total of 52 patients were included in the study. An additional
pacing/sensing lead was implanted in 28 patients and an add-on ICD lead
was implanted in 24 patients. The mean echocardiographic follow-up time
(months) after intervention was similar in both groups (19.7 ± 17.7 vs.
18.2 ± 16.5 p:0.94). There was no significant difference between groups
regarding age, gender, etiology of heart disease, and types of ICD. The
addition of PSL did not result in a statistically significant increase
in the degree of tricuspid regurgitation. (p:0,705). We did not find a
significant increase in the degree of tricuspid regurgitation in
patients in whom ICD leads were added (p: 0.059). There was no
significant difference between the two groups in terms of the change in
TR grade (p: 0.130). Conclusion: Although the relationship
between CIED-mediated TV dysfunction and tricuspid valve dysfunction is
clear, the effect of lead-related factors, such as the increased number
and diameter of leads, on tricuspid valve dysfunction is unknown. This
is the first study to investigate the effect of new shock lead insertion
versus new PSL insertion strategies on lead-related tricuspid
regurgitation in patients with lead failure. The findings indicate that
adding a PSL or ICD lead in patients requiring lead addition due to lead
failure did not increase tricuspid valve dysfunction.