Exacerbation of heart failure due to total pacemaker extrusion.

Unlabelled: Total extrusion of a pacemaker is rare and may result from skin and/or pocket infection or skin erosion because of fragility caused by actions such as scratching an itch. Total extrusion of a pacemaker may cause fatal arrhythmias, exacerbation of heart failure, and infection. We report the case of a 37-year-old man with a pacemaker implanted for complete atrioventricular block who presented with exacerbation of advanced heart failure due to complete extrusion of the pacemaker from the left groin and pacing failure. No fever was observed during the clinical course, but exudate leaked from his abdominal pocket. Electrocardiography showed a complete atrioventricular block. He successfully underwent implantation of a new pacemaker.

Learning Objective: There are various complications related to permanent pacemaker implantation; however, total extrusion, which is extremely rare, can lead to pacemaker failure, sepsis, and life-threatening arrhythmias. It is essential not only to check the pacemaker pocket and generator but also to educate patients on the importance of pacemaker check-ups and problems.