Lead Extraction With Baffle Stenting in Adults With Transposition of the Great Arteries

Abstract Objectives This study sought to assess the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of a stepwise combined percutaneous approach that includes transvenous lead extraction (TLE) followed by baffle stenting and device reimplantation in patients with D-transposition of the great arteries (D-TGA) and atrial baffle dysfunction. Background Management of baffle leak or stenosis in patients with D-TGA and atrial switch surgery is challenging in the presence of transvenous cardiac implantable electronic devices. Baffle complications hinder device-related interventions and addressing baffle dysfunction often requires TLE. Methods All consecutive patients with D-TGA and TLE followed by a percutaneous baffle intervention at the Montreal Heart Institute between 2009 and 2018 were enrolled. Results Ten patients, median 38.6 years of age (range: 15.2 to 50.6 years), 5 males (50.0%) were included. Procedures were performed for a device-related indication in 5 patients (50.0%) and for baffle dysfunction in 5 patients (50.0%). A total of 19 leads (17 pacing, 2 defibrillation) were targeted, with a median time from implantation of 8.7 (range: 4.3 to 22.1) years. A laser sheath was most frequently required for successful TLE, which was achieved in all patients. Immediate baffle stenting was performed in 9 patients (90.0%) and immediate device reimplantation in 6 (60.0%). During a median follow-up of 3.0 (range: 0.1 to 8.2) years, the only complication was subpulmonary atrioventricular valve damage requiring surgery in 1 patient, 8 months after the procedure. Conclusions A combined approach with TLE followed by baffle stenting and reimplantation appears to be safe and feasible in D-TGA patients with atrial switch, baffle dysfunction, and transvenous leads.