Prospective randomized comparison of single pacemaker implantation using the subclavian vein puncture versus the cephalic vein cutdown

Abstract

Objective To compare the value of pacemaker implantation using the subclavian vein (SCV) puncture and thecephalic vein(CV) cutdown approach.Methods One hundred and forty-six patients were randomized into SCV group (98 patients) and CV group (48 patients).We observed the success rate,surgery duration,fluoroscopy time and complications of the two groups.Results The SCV group had significantly higher success rate,shorter duration of surgery and fluoroscopy than the CV group (success rate:100％ (98/98) vs.89％ (43/48),x2 =10.5,P ＜ 0.05 ; duration of surgery:(118 ± 35) min vs.(256 ± 75)min,t =12.12,P ＜0.01 ; duration of fluoroscopy:(15 ±5) min vs.(35 ± 10) min,t =13.08,P ＜0.01).Both groups had one case who developed compilations which were pocket hematoma and wire electrode dislocation respectively.The rate of complications was not significantly different between the two groups (P ＞ 0.05).Conclusion The SCV approach should be considered a preferable access in pacemaker implantation. Key words: Subclavian vein puncture; Cephalic vein cutdown; Cardiac pacemaker