Conclusion
Insertion of a pacemaker lead through the subclavian artery is extremely
rare and believed to be markedly underreported. Adverse events resulting
from this iatrogenic complication includes pneumothorax, arterial injury
and thromboembolic events. Immediate identification and diagnosis of
this complication is essential. Careful interpretation of
post-implantation ECG lead is of extreme value to identify this
complication. Proper utilization of imaging modalities including lateral
chest x-ray view and echocardiography should be adopted whenever
improper lead placement is suspected.