LAUSR

Device related complications are rising the need of Transvenous Lead Removal (TLR). Transvenous extraction of Pacing (PL) and Defibrillating Leads (DL) is a highly effective technique. Aim of this report is to analyse the longstanding experience performed in a single Italian Referral Center. Since January 1997 to December 2019, we managed 2769 consecutive patients (2100 men, mean age 65.5 years) with 5086 leads (mean pacing period 73.6 months, range 1–576). PL were 3998 (1828 ventricular, 1704 atrial, 466 coronary sinus leads), DL were 1088 (1067 ventricular, 6 atrial, 15 superior vena cava leads). Indications to TLR were infection in 79% (systemic 27%, local 52%) of leads. We performed mechanical dilatation using a single polypropylene sheath technique and if necessary, other intravascular tools; an Approach through the Internal Jugular Vein (JA) was performed in case of free-floating leads or failure of the standard approach. Removal was attempted in 5076 leads because the technique was not applicable in 10 PL. Among these, 4952 leads were completely removed (97.6%), 49 (1.0%) partially removed, 75 (1.4%) not removed. Among 4989 exposed leads, 818 were removed by manual traction (16.4%), 3664 by mechanical dilatation using the venous entry site (73.4%), 48 by femoral approach (FA) (1.0%) and 335 by JA (6.7%). All the free-floating leads were completely removed, 25.3% by FA and 74.7% by JA. Major complications occurred in 20 cases (0.72%): cardiac tamponade (19 cases, 4 deaths), hemotorax (1 death). Our experience shows that in centers with wide experience, TLR using single sheath mechanical dilatation has a high success rate and a very low incidence of serious complications. TLR through the Internal Jugular Vein increases the effectiveness and safety of the procedure also in case of free-floating or challenging leads. Type of funding source: None