Restoring the Recurrent Extrusion of the Subcutaneously Implanted Defibrillator by Means of Subpectoral Replacement: The Benefits of Subpectoral Implantation in the Current ICD Era

Abstract

A 72-year-old man with a thin build had an ICD system with a generator implanted at left prepectoral space. The generator was exposed through thin overlying skin at 11 months following surgery. Although it was undermined with the adjacent skin, it was exposed again 6 months later. The generator was replaced in the ipsilateral subpectoral space. Since then, no signs of recurrence have been observed for the subsequent 12 months, with the patient pleased with its cosmetic appearance. This case illustrates the benefits of subpectoral implantation in the current ICD era in which subcutaneous implantation is common.