From the Research
The oldest age reported for a pacemaker lead extraction is likely over 90 years old, as evidenced by a case report of a 90-year-old pacemaker-dependent patient who underwent incomplete transvenous lead extraction 1. While there isn't a definitive record for the oldest person to undergo this procedure, pacemaker extractions have been performed on patients well into their 90s. The decision to extract a pacemaker is based more on the patient's overall health and the necessity of the procedure rather than age alone. Factors such as infection, device malfunction, or the need for an upgrade can necessitate extraction even in very elderly patients. It's essential to consider the patient's overall health, comorbidities, and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure, as highlighted in a study on transvenous lead extraction in octogenarian patients 2. Additionally, advancements in cardiac care and surgical techniques have improved the safety and efficacy of pacemaker extractions, even in high-risk, older populations 3, 2. Some studies have also reported successful pacemaker implantations in patients over 90 years old, including a case series of patients aged 90-100 years who received dual-chamber pacemakers without complications 4. However, the oldest age for pacemaker extraction is not strictly defined and may vary depending on individual patient factors and the specific circumstances of the procedure. In general, the ability to perform pacemaker extractions on very elderly patients demonstrates the advancements in cardiac care and surgical techniques, allowing for safer procedures even in high-risk, older populations 1, 2. Key considerations for pacemaker extraction in elderly patients include:
- Patient's overall health and comorbidities
- Necessity of the procedure
- Potential risks and benefits
- Advances in cardiac care and surgical techniques
- Individual patient factors and circumstances.