Bilateral sternobronchial fistula after coronary surgery - Are the retained epicardial pacing wires responsible? A case report

Abstract

Background: Temporary epicardial pacing wires are routinely used during cardiac surgery; they are dependable in controlling postoperative arrhythmias and are associated with low morbitity. Case report: We report a case of sternobronchial fistula formation induced by the existence of retained epicardial pacing wires in a patient who underwent coronary surgery ten years ago. Conclusion: Reported complications of retained epicardial pacing wires are unusual. We present this case in order to include it to the potential complications of the epicardial pacing wires. © 2009 Sakellaridis et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.