Complications following cardiac pacemaker insertions

Abstract

Context: Permanent pacemaker insertion is a recognised mode of therapy for cardiac arrhythmias. The procedure is carried our regularly at the Cardiac Catheterization laboratory of Madras Medical Mission India.

Aims: This study reviewed the associated morbidity and complications of cardiac pacemaker insertions carried out over fifteen years.

Settings and Design: This study was carried out in the Cardiac Electrophysiology department, of the Institute of Cardiovascular diseases, Madras Medical Mission, India. The study was retrospective.

Material and methods: Data was collected when previously paced patients presented for cardiac interrogation between January to July of 2013. The patients had undergone implantation over the preceding fifteen years. 501 consecutive cases were chosen for analysis. The data obtained was analysed using SPSS statistical software version 15.

Results: The 501 patients had been on pacemaker for variable durations. They comprised 321 males and 180 females. A variety of complications were observed in 33 (6.58%) patients but there was no procedure-related mortality.

Conclusions: Pacemakers were generally well tolerated. Majority of patients were asymptomatic and the rate of complications is 6.58%.