Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Tricuspid valve narrowing from pacemaker leads in small dogs
By Gunther-Harrington, Catherine T et al.·Published in Journal of veterinary cardiology : the official journal of the European Society of Veterinary Cardiology·2015·W.R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Acquired tricuspid valve stenosis due to intentionally redundant transvenous lead placement for VDD pacing in two small dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Two small dogs developed serious heart problems after having a special pacemaker (VDD pacing) implanted to help with their heart rhythm. Over time, the pacemaker's lead caused a narrowing of the tricuspid valve, which made it hard for blood to flow properly. Despite the initial benefits of the pacemaker, both dogs had to be euthanized due to complications from the device. This case highlights the risks associated with using this type of pacemaker in small dogs, suggesting that the potential dangers may outweigh the benefits.
People also search for: dog heart problems after pacemaker · small dog tricuspid valve issues · VDD pacing complications in dogs
Abstract
Placement of an endocardial VDD pacing lead in small dogs (<12 kg) may necessitate a redundant lead remaining looped in the right atrium for appropriate sensing and pacing. This report documented acquired tricuspid valve stenosis in two small dogs between 8 months and 4 years after VDD pacemaker placement for third-degree atrioventricular block. Echocardiography and Doppler echocardiography identified elevated transtricuspid flow velocities, prolonged pressure half-times, decreased valve leaflet excursions, and tricuspid regurgitation in both cases. Both cases were euthanized secondary to this pacing complication. Necropsy was performed in one case and confirmed adherence between the redundant lead loop, atrial and valve tissue. While VDD pacing in dogs has proven hemodynamic benefits, these benefits have not been demonstrated in terms of survival benefit or clinical signs. The requirement of redundant lead placement in small dogs for appropriate VDD lead function creates potential deleterious effects that should be weighed against the possible clinical value of VDD pacing in these patients.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26463216/