Sub-pocket small-hole drainage for pocket hematoma after cardiac device implantation.

ABSTRACT

AIMS: Pocket hematoma is a common complication associated with cardiac device implantation, but there are limited strategies to deal with this problem. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of sub-pocket small-hole drainage (SSD) as a new way to manage severe pocket hematoma. METHODS: A total of 11 patients with severe pocket hematoma were selected for this case series study. The SSD procedure was performed and wound healing was monitored. RESULTS: The SSD procedure was successfully performed on all 11 patients. The time window for SSD was 10-14 days (mean 12.0 ± 1.3 days) after cardiac device implantation. On average, 18.3 ± 2.3 ml of hematoma was drained , with a mean procedural time of 21.3 ± 2.6 min. The patients were followed up for 4-12 months and all pockets healed well, without any complications such as pocket infection, bleeding, device exposure, and electrode fracture. CONCLUSION: Sub-pocket small-hole drainage is an alternative approach for dealing with severe pocket hematoma after cardiac device implantation.