Detecting and managing device leads inadvertently placed in the left ventricle

Abstract

Inadvertent malpositioning of a cardiac implantable electronic device lead into the left ventricle is a rare complication of transvenous pacing and defibrillation. Rapid identification of lead position is critical during implantation and just after the procedure, with immediate correction required if malpositioning is detected. If lead misplacement is discovered late after implantation, the lead should be surgically removed or chronic anticoagulation with warfarin should be instituted.