Fracture of a temporary pacemaker electrode catheter.

Abstract

We have reported an instance of fracture of a temporary bipolar electrode catheter with embolization of the distal fragment to the lung. The patient had no untoward effects for 45 days before death. Autopsy revealed no thrombosis proximal or distal to the catheter fragment. The inability of the catheter to withstand the stress of usage questions the efficacy of its design. Careful inspection of the catheter before its use might have prevented this complication.