[Experience with implantation of a permanent electrode for cardiac pacing directly through the subclavian vein in 2,309 patients].

Since April 1975 to the end of 1988 permanent cardiac stimulation was employed in 2,309 patients. The stimulating electrode was placed in the right ventricle in 2,258 patients and in the right atrium in 29 patients. Two electrodes were introduced in 22 patients one in the right ventricle and the other in the right atrium. All electrodes were introduced directly through the subclavian vein. No other approach was used. Serious complications appeared in 4 patients (i. e. in 0.17%). Pneumothorax on the side of the introduced electrode occurred in 3 patients. One woman of 80 died in connection with this complication. Another woman, who was overdosed with Pelentan, experienced hemothorax on the side of electrode insertion. After drug discontinuation and thoracic puncture the patient was doing well. In our opinion the subclavian approach for permanent electrode introduction is much more convenient than the introduction via either the cephalic or the jugular vein respectively. The former approach is considerably quicker and less traumatic in use. This method may be used in practically all patients. The repetitive introduction of the electrode through the same subclavian vein is much appreciated in patients in whom a new electrode has to be introduced. This method may be used for right atrium stimulation and for sequential pacing as well.