Abstract 4147446: Safety and Outcomes of Leadless Pacemaker Retrieval in the United States

Introduction: While the utilization of leadless pacemakers is growing, the safety of device retrieval remains an important question that has yet to be addressed. Methods: Using the State Inpatient Database (2016 to 2021), we identified 426 cases of leadless pacemaker (Medtronic MICRA) revision or replacement using ICD-10-PCS codes 02WA3NZ and 02PA3NZ. In-hospital mortality and procedure-related complications, including vascular or access site injuries, pericardial and myocardial injuries, bleeding, and emergent open-heart surgery, were examined. Additionally, healthcare resource utilization and post-discharge outcomes were assessed. Results: The mean age of the patients was 69 ± 14 years. Most procedures (77%) were performed electively at large urban teaching hospitals. Device malfunction was a secondary diagnosis in 10% of cases, and infection occurred in 14%. The in-hospital mortality rate was 7.4%, with 29% experiencing procedure-related complications, primarily post-procedural bleeding (64%) and pericardial injury (23%). These complication rates remained unchanged throughout the study period and were more likely to occur in patients with a high comorbidity burden and those undergoing non-elective procedures. The mean length of stay was 12.1 days, and the inflation-adjusted cost was approximately $76,432. The 30-day all-cause readmission rate was 14%. Conclusion: Leadless pacemaker retrieval presents significant risks, with complication rates remaining unchanged over the past five years. Prior to retrieval, careful evaluation is essential, and retrieval protocols should be optimized.