Pacemaker and ICD implant insertion techniques: Venous approach and complications

Abstract

Every year a few million people around the world will receive a cardiac implantable electronic device- either a pacemaker or an ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) or a device for cardiac resynchronization therapy. Elderly people is the fastest growing segment of population in the developed countries and is also responsible for most of the implanted devices in the world. Pacemakers and ICDs implants are prone to early or late procedure complications that need to be prevented and recognized. A better understanding and knowledge of clinical anatomy related to venous access for pacemaker and ICD leads insertion is needed to avoid complications. This 54th chapter is going to present clinical aspects related to venous approach of cardiac rhythm management devices implant procedure and also complications related to transvenous insertion and cardiac placement of devices leads.