Delayed presentation of pacemaker Reel Syndrome and lead damage: Coincidence or consequence?

Abstract

Reel syndrome is a pacemaker lead early dislodgment, characterized by reeling-in of the lead(s) without being damaged. We herein present a case of an 86-year-old woman, with medical history of single chamber pacemaker implantation two years ago, admitted in cardiology department with complete AV block. Chest-Xray revealed ventricular lead coiling around and behind the pacemaker device. Urgent extraction of the previous pacemaker was performed; however, the lead damage made its repositioning unfeasible. Successful implantation of single-chamber pacemaker has been made. This clinical case highlights the importance of adequate follow-up to timely identify lead dislodgement, avoid lethal complications and lead fracture.