Transvenous permanent pacemaker implantation in children and adolescent

In pediatric patients cardiac pacing has been traditionally carried out by the epicardial approach in Taiwan. This study was to define the long-term results of transvenous endocardial pacemaker therapy in growing children. From 1994 to 1997, patients with sympatomatic bradycardia referred for permanent pacemaker were enrolled. Permanent pacemaker was implanted under propofol anesthesia and direct puncture of subclavian vein and creation of prepectoral pocket. A total of l0 patients (5 male, 5 female) aged from 5 to 17 years (13±4 yrs), constituted the study population. Follow-up period ranged from 14 to 48 months (29±14 months). Underlying rhythm disturbances and pacemaker type implanted were: complete atrioventricular (AV) block 5 (VDD pacemaker in 3 and VVIR in 2), sick sinus syndrome 2 (DDDR pacemaker in both), sick sinus syndrome with abnormal AV conduction 1 (VVIR) , long QT syndrome 1 (VV1R) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy 1 (DDDR). Pacemaker dysfunction occurred in only one patient in whom the endocardial lead was fixed by absorbable thread with an aim to have more flexibility of the lead. The endocardial lead was dislodged but properly reimplanted about 3 months after the initial implantation. All patients had satisfactory lead sensing and pacing threshold during the long-term follow-up. The pacing threshold was much better than that usually needed for epicardial leads. With growing, none have the problems of lead length. Quality of life was reported to be improved in all. Tranvenous permanent pacemaker implantation is feasible in children aged 5 or older. The long-term efficacy is satisfactory. Physiological pacing using a single lead (VDD) is recommended for younger patients with impaired AV conduction.