Pulmonary hypertensive crisis: A potential reason for right ventricle and pacemaker lead failure.

ABSTRACT

Cardiac pacemakers have improved patient survival and quality of life, although malfunctions can be seen. We present the case of a girl with Seckel syndrome and congenital complete heart block. She had a single chamber permanent pacemaker in the right ventricle. When she referred us with a pulmonary hypertensive crisis (PHC), it was seen that the device was not pacing even in maximum threshold and pulse width values. After new epicardial lead implantation into the left ventricular apex, capture could be established again. For the cases presenting with capture failure, after eliminating lead-related problems and biochemical abnormalities, PHC should be kept in mind as a reason.