Reel Versus Twiddler Syndrome in a Patient With a Pacemaker: A Case Report of Iatrogenic Manipulation

Cureus. 2024 Jul 30;16(7):e65758. doi: 10.7759/cureus.65758. eCollection 2024 Jul.

Abstract

Twiddler syndrome is a rare entity in which patient manipulation causes lead dislocation with lead retraction. Reel syndrome, on the other hand, is observed after external manipulation, intentional or unintentional, in which the leads move along their transverse axis and is considered a variant of Twiddler syndrome. We present the clinical case of a 91-year-old female who, after pacemaker implantation, presented with dizziness and chest discomfort following constant manipulation of the pacemaker, resulting in complete retraction of the lead tip into the pouch, which is unusual in the literature to date.

Keywords: cardiac pacemaker; pacemaker complication; pacemaker lead displacement; reel syndrome; twiddler's syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports