Safety and efficacy of combined dilation/stenting of venous abnormalities, including complete obstructions, during lead extractions in patients with congenital heart disease

Introduction Management of transvenous leads in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) can be complicated by venous obstructions and residual shunts. We present our experience performing concurrent lead extraction and dilation/stenting of venous pathways, including patients with complete venous obstruction. Methods All cases of concurrent lead extraction and recanalization of vena cavae/baffles between 2017 and 2021 at Boston Children's Hospital were retrospectively included and reviewed for safety and efficacy. Results Eight patients, 4 female, median 38.5 years of age (range 16.7−49 years) and 81.6 kg weight (range 41.3−97.8 kg) at time of procedure were included. All patients had CHD, a majority (n = 7) having transposition of the great arteries palliated via atrial switch. All leads were removed in their entirety, with most patients having two leads extracted (n = 7). Median lead dwell time was 13.8 years (range 3.6−35.3 years). Three patients had complete obstructions, three required stenting of their innominate veins and three required recanalization of their femoral vessels. Median procedure time was 9.8 h (range 5.4−12.8 h). Complications included blood transfusion (n = 2), arrhythmia (n = 3), pleural effusion (n = 1), and pressure ulcer (n = 1). There were no cardiac perforations, venous tears, or deaths. Conclusion Lead extraction along with dilation and stenting of venous anomalies, though long in duration, proved effective with minimal complications. This combined procedure can safely and effectively resolve complete obstructions secondary to transvenous leads.