Removal of A Fractured Temporary Pacemaker Electrode Using Endomyocardial Biopsy Forceps

A 70-year-old man witb acute inferior myocardial infarction required temporary pacing for symptomatic complete heart block. During manipulation and withdrawal of a 5 Fr temporary pacing electrode (USCI. Billerica, MA, USA) through a wide-bore needle in the left subclavian vein, tbe electrode was severed and lost within tbe subclavian vein (Fig. 1). A second temporary pacemaker was successfully placed and the patient transferred 3 weeks later for permanent pacing because of symptomatic prolonged episodes of sinus arrest.