Expert opinion of a Working Group on Leadless Pacing appointed by the National Consultant in Cardiology and the Board of the Heart Rhythm Section of the Polish Cardiac Society

Abstract

Permanent cardiac pacing is a recognized method of treatment of patients with sick sinus syndrome and/or atrioventricular conduction disturbances. Implantation of a traditional pacing system with trans-venous leads is associated with a risk of complications, such as pneumothorax perforation of cardiac wall or cardiac device-related infection. An alternative method that may be used for permanent cardiac pacing is represented by the leadless pacemaker, implanted directly into the target cardiac chamber. Such devices have been implanted in Poland since 2016, but the number of procedures is limited due to the lack of clear reimbursement rules.

The expert panel appointed by the National Consultant in Cardiology and the Executive Board of the Heart Rhythm Section of the Polish Cardiac Society presents a statement on the use of a leadless pace-maker in Polish conditions. The statement present streatment method and results of clinical studies that confirm its safety and efficacy, indications and contraindications for its use, and precise requirements to be fulfilled by the implanting centers.