Risk factors for complications in the implantation of epicardial pacemakers in neonates and infants

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Complications related to epicardial pacemakers in infants have been reported, though limited data are available on their incidence and associated risk factors. OBJECTIVE: The hypothesis of the study is that younger, smaller patients and larger devices would be associated with complications in neonates and infants. METHODS: This is a retrospective study of all patients at a single center receiving an epicardial pacemaker at 21 days were found to be at lower risk with an NPV of 96%; and regardless of age, patients weighing >4 kg had an NPV of 98%. CONCLUSION: Young age and low weight at the time of implantation are risk factors for complications, while device characteristics appear to play a minor role. Reserving pacemaker implantation for patients >3 kg in weight and 5 days of age may predict patients at low risk of developing complications.