Septic paradoxical embolus through a patent foramen ovale after pacemaker implantation

Ann Thorac Surg. 2000 Mar;69(3):946-8. doi: 10.1016/s0003-4975(99)01406-x.

Abstract

A case of a septic paradoxic embolus due to an infected pacemaker lead associated with a patent foramen ovale (PFO) is described. Treatment consisted of immediate intracardiac embolectomy, pericardial patch closure of the PFO, total removal of the infected pacemaker lead and generator, and placement of a new permanent epicardial lead pacemaker system.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Embolism, Paradoxical / etiology*
  • Heart Septal Defects, Atrial / complications*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pacemaker, Artificial / adverse effects*
  • Staphylococcal Infections / etiology*
  • Staphylococcus epidermidis*