Pacemaker Implantation with Persistence of Left Superior Vena Cava and Absence of Right Superior Vena Cava

pp. 214-217

Abstract

Persistence of left superior vena cava (LSVC), which occurs in approximately 0.3% of the general population may complicate placement of pacing leads during a pacemaker implantation, specially due to the angle the ventricular lead takes from the coronary sinus mouth to enter through the tricuspid valve. Although persistent LSVC is a relative common venous anomaly, associated absence of the right superior vena cava with normal heart situs is exceedingly rare. A persistent LSVC with absent RSVC was discovered at the implantation of a dual-chamber pacemaker. Standard leads were successfully placed for atrial and ventricular stimulation. Possibility of preoperative diagnosis by invasive and non-invasive methods and technical implications in implantation were discussed.