Implantation of left ventricular epicardial leads for biventricular resynchronization through a single-port video-assisted thoracoscopy

Abstract

Cardiac resynchronization therapy is a promising therapeutic option for patients with end-stage heart failure. The preferred method for left ventricular lead implantation is the percutaneous access through the coronary sinus. However, this technique may impose certain technical difficulties due to suboptimal lead positioning. In such cases, a video-assisted thoracoscopic epicardial approach may be a good alternative. To date, video-assisted left ventricular epicardial lead implantation from two or three port incisions have been described. Herein, we present the first successful left ventricular epicardial lead implantation through a simplified single-port video-assisted thoracoscopy technique in Turkey.

Keywords: Cardiac resynchronization therapy; left ventricular lead implantation; video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.