Lead Perforation with a Small Body Diameter Implantable Defibrillator Lead.

We read with interest the article on the increased incidence of lead perforation with the Riata St. Jude Medical lead reported by Danik et al 1 Danik S.B. Mansour M. Singh J. Reddy V.Y. Ellinor P.T. Milan D. Heist E.K. d’Avila A. Ruskin J.N. Mela T. Increased incidence of subacute lead perforation noted with one implantable cardioverter-defibrillator lead. Heart Rhythm. 2007; 4: 439-442 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (94) Google Scholar in the April 2007 issue of Heart Rhythm. The article highlights the need for postmarketing surveillance as well as maintenance of excellent communication between industry and implanting physicians. Increased Incidence of Subacute Lead Perforation Noted With One ICD LeadHeart RhythmVol. 4Issue 9PreviewWe thank Drs. Suri and Keller for sharing their experience with this lead. We concur with their thoughtful analysis of the design of this new technology and the potential to modify the site of fixation when implanting these smaller-diameter leads. The importance of communication among physicians as well as between physicians and industry cannot be overstated so that continuous innovation, while enhancing patient safety, can be achieved. Full-Text PDF