Beebe completes first cardiovascular lead extraction cases

A multidisciplinary team of clinicians has completed the first lead extraction cases at Beebe Healthcare’s Margaret H. Rollins Lewes Campus.

Cardiovascular teams in the catheterization lab and operating room collaborated for many months to assemble a team to diagnose and treat patients with infected cardiovascular implantable electronic devices, such as pacemakers and implantable defibrillators.

“It is with tremendous excitement and pride that I have the distinct pleasure in recognizing our electrophysiologist, Dr. Maria Del Corral, our cardiovascular cath lab team, and operating room team for successfully carrying out Beebe Healthcare’s first lead extraction cases,” said Tom Trobiano, DNP, FNP-C, MAPC, cardiovascular and neuroscience services executive director.

Lead extraction is necessary when the clinical team determines that the benefits outweigh the risk. Leads are attached to the device to help anchor to the heart and transmit the device’s programmed action. However, occasionally the area can become infected after implantation, or a lead can become faulty or be recalled. Failure to remove the device is a life-threatening decision, and antibiotic treatments pose a risk of resistance and are only a temporary resolution.

Lead extraction, through a complex procedure, removes the device and implants a new one so the patient’s heart can continue to receive the necessary arrhythmia adjustment.

Two patients recently underwent the procedure and returned home after just one night.

To learn more, go to beebehealthcare.org/services/cardiovascular.