Percutaneous removal of transvenous pacemaker leads using an extraction device

Permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) is routinely performed at specialized cardiology centers. Though, pacemaker device and lead extraction may be necessary due to pacemaker pocket infection, infective endocarditis, or lead fracture it is an infrequently performed procedure because of the associated morbidity and mortality. Though surgical lead extraction requiring a median sternotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass is also an accepted procedure it is reserved for large vegetations or failed attempts at percutaneous removal. Newer and innovative devices for percutaneous removal of leads have been developed which have made lead extraction easier and safer. We report our experience of using interlocking stylets for percutaneously removing an infected dual chamber pacemaker and its leads.