Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Lead Failure due to Twiddler Syndrome

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2015 Nov;38(11):1369-71. doi: 10.1111/pace.12741. Epub 2015 Sep 22.

Abstract

We present a case of Twiddler syndrome in a patient with a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD). The patient presented herself to the outpatient clinic with pain in the left chest. Chest x-ray confirmed Twiddler syndrome and ICD read-out revealed lead failure resulting in absent heart rhythm sensing in one vector. The lead and pulse generator were extracted and a new S-ICD system was reimplanted submuscular underneath the serratus anterior muscle to prevent reoccurrence. Lead investigation revealed an insulation defect caused by excessive mechanical stress.

Keywords: Twiddler; complication; defibrillation - ICD; sensing.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Defibrillators, Implantable* / adverse effects
  • Device Removal
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Prosthesis Failure*
  • Prosthesis Implantation
  • Syndrome