The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Vol 80, 794-799, Copyright © 1980 by The American Association for Thoracic Surgery and The Western Thoracic Surgical Association
Helifix, an electrode suitable for transvenous atrial and ventricular implantation
L Bergdahl
The Helifix endocardial fixation lead can be screwed in between the
trabeculae of the right ventricle or the right atrial appendage. The lead
was used for ventricular stimulation in 30 patients. In seven of them, the
Helifix electrode was used because of dislocation of other leads and in
eight patients because acceptable threshold levels could not be obtained
with other electrodes. In six patients the Helifix lead had to be inserted
in the proximal part of the right ventricle and in one patient in the
outflow tract. One patient required replacement of the Helifix lead after 6
weeks because of an excessive threshold rise. There was only one instance
of electrode dislodgment (1 hour after implantation) in the 30 patients. In
20 patients the Helifix lead was implanted in the right atrial appendage
with the aid of a new double stylet. There was no instance of electrode
dislodgment or any other complications in the 20 patients. The Helifix lead
is therefore recommended as an atrial electrode. This lead is also suitable
in patients with frequent dislocations and for better fixation to other
parts of the right ventricle than the apex.
