Transvenous extraction profile of Riata leads: procedural outcomes and technical complexity of mechanical removal.

Background: Riata (RT) and Sprint Fidelis (SF) leads were recalled by the United States Food and Drug Administration because of an increased rate of failure mainly due to conductor fracture or insulation abrasion. According to lead design and type of failure, extraction complexity may be different, potentially affecting procedural outcomes and indications.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the extraction profile of RT leads with and without cable externalization in comparison to SF leads.

Subcutaneous implantable cardiac defibrillators: indications and limitations.

The implantable cardioverter defibrillator is today an indisputable evidence-based treatment for cardiac sudden death both in primary and secondary prevention. However, trans-venous cardioverter defibrillator implantation still carries a not negligible risk of complications both acutely and during follow-up. Trans-venous endocardial lead is the weak link of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) technology being the source of most mechanical complications on vessels and heart structures and exposed to infection, malfunction and recalls.

Safety and efficacy of internal transjugular approach for transvenous extraction of implantable cardioverter defibrillator leads.

Aims: We report our 15 years experience of a mechanical single-sheath technique with a multiple venous entry-site approach. We evaluated the effectiveness and safety of this technique in implantable defibrillator (ICD) lead extraction and investigated the potential association between clinical and lead-related factors and procedural complexity.

Methods And Results: The proposed technique consists of an initial attempt at manual traction, followed by mechanical dilatation performed through the venous entry-site and, if necessary, by crossover to the internal transjugular approach.

Behavioral, psycho-physiological and salivary cortisol modifications after short-term alprazolam treatment in patients with recent myocardial infarction.

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the behavioral and physiological effects of the central nervous system depressant alprazolam on a group of cardiac patients.

Methods: Immediately after hospital discharge, the Crown and Crisp Experiential Index (CCEI) was administered, the salivary cortisol was detected and a psycho-physiological profile was recorded in 52 subjects who had suffered from myocardial infarction. Half of the subjects represented the experimental group and the remaining 26 individuals acted as a control group not undergoing treatment.