Cardiac Lead Removal

A cardiac lead is a flexible wire coated with insulation that connects a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to the interior of the heart. Removal of the lead may be necessary under certain circumstances. Cardiac lead removal is often referred to as lead extraction.

A key challenge in removing a pacemaker or defibrillator lead from the heart is overcoming the fibrous tissue that grows around the lead and adheres to it. The Spectranetics Laser Sheath (SLS® II) delivers ultraviolet light generated by the Spectranetics Excimer Laser System to free leads from this binding tissue.

A ring of laser energy gently breaks down the scar tissue into particles that are easily absorbed into the bloodstream. This process frees the lead from the binding tissue and enables the physician to remove the lead in a controlled fashion.

Why do cardiac leads need to be taken out?

• The lead is damaged.
• The lead requires more energy to function than the device (pacemaker or ICD) is able to deliver.
• There is an infection at the implant site of the lead.
• The lead is interfering with blood flow back to the heart.
• The lead is interfering with other leads or may interfere with new lead(s) that need to be placed in your heart.

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