Implantation of a permanent pacemaker in a pregnant woman under the guidance of electrophysiologic signals and transthoracic echocardiography

Abstract

We describe the case of a 30-year-old pregnant woman who underwent pacemaker implantation for recurrent syncope caused by sinus arrest. In order to minimize radiation exposure, which may potentially have teratogenic effects, we decided to perform pacemaker implantation by means of a hybrid technique involving the evaluation of electrophysiologic signals and transthoracic echocardiographic imaging to guide lead positioning within the right ventricle. After the procedure, the patient was always asymptomatic and had no recurrences of syncope. Six months later, she experienced uncomplicated natural labor, and the newborn was absolutely healthy. On a 10-month follow-up examination, the lead position was still optimal, and ventricular sensing and pacing thresholds were good. Our case demonstrates that pacemaker implantation under the guidance of electrophysiologic signals and transthoracic echocardiographic imaging, with only a short view by pulsed fluoroscopy in order to verify the correct lead position, is an effective and well-tolerated procedure in pregnant women.