Endocardial LV lead for resynchronization therapy - a viable
alternative.
Abstract
Objectives: Describe an alternative to conventional LV lead placement.
Background: Conventional left ventricular (LV) lead placement is not
always possible due to anatomic and technical limitations. In selected
patients LV endocardial lead placement is a viable alternative. Methods:
Five patients on warfarin with unsuccessful coronary sinus lead
placements and contraindications to epicardial lead placement elected to
undergo addition of an LV endocardial lead. The left ventricle was
accessed through the interatrial septum via a combined superior and
inferior approach resulting in an active fix lead placed on the LV
endocardial surface. Results: All patients underwent successful LV
endocardial lead placement. There were no acute procedural
complications. Two patients died 2 years following the procedure from
unrelated causes. The other patients were alive and well at a mean
follow up of 2.8 years, with significant symptomatic improvement and no
evidence of cardioembolic complications. Conclusions: The placement of
LV endocardial leads is a viable alternative in highly selected patients
with limited options.