Lead Extraction

What is it about?

An interview with Dr. Jude F. Clancy, MD about his perspectives and discernments on how new technology and techniques are being proposed with the use of lead extraction. A new rescue device, the Bridge™ Occlusion Balloon (Spectranetics, Colorado Springs, CO), is a FDA approved compliant balloon that can be deployed in the SVC to basically tamponade the tear and stabilize the patient until a definitive operation can be done within a couple minutes.

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Why is it important?

Lead extraction procedures occur because of the need to remove one or more leads from inside the heart. Infections at the implantable cardiac device site, blockage of the vein, excess formation of scar tissue, or damage to the inside or outside of the lead are determinants for these procedures. Although lead extractions are not frequently performed, awareness of complications is important.

Perspectives