Introduction of an endocardial pacing lead through the costocervical vein in six dogs
Flanders, J.A.; Moïse, N.S.; Gelzer, A.R.; Waskiewicz, J.C.; MacGregor, J.M.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 215(1): 46-8 34
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-1488 PMID: 10397064 Document Number: 500557
A technique for implantation of endocardial pacing leads through the right costocervical vein was developed. A right second intercostal space thoracotomy was performed to expose the vein, and the pacing generator was placed in the musculature over the lateral aspect of the thorax. The technique was performed in 6 dogs, 5 of which had had an endotracheal pacing lead dislodged. None of the dogs had problems with lead dislodgement during follow-up periods of 15 to 20 months. It is concluded that this technique is not a replacement for implantation of endocardial pacing leads through the jugular vein but is indicated for large dogs in which endocardial pacing leads implanted through the jugular vein were dislodged.