Infection and superior vena cava syndrome after pacemaker implantations: major consequences of a minor intervention
De Kluiver, E.P.; Hoorntje, J.C.; Leicher, F.G.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde 141(27): 1321-1324
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0028-2162 PMID: 9380183 Document Number: 480635
Two men, aged 71 and 56 years, with pacemakers, developed the superior vena cava syndrome one and five years, respectively, after infection of the pacemaker pocket. They had been treated with antibiotics and partial removal of the foreign bodies. The conditions of both included occlusion of the superior vena cava and of both subclavian veins. The symptoms disappeared after removal of the total pacemaker system and venous reconstruction. The possibility of a superior vena cava syndrome occurring is increased if other complications have occurred previously, particularly infection. Prevention and treatment comprise on the one hand prevention and treatment of the infection (which is not always obvious) and on the other, earliest possible detection of thromboembolisms.