OBJECTIVE: To present the experience of 157 implantations using a simplified technique for coronary sinus catheterization, based on the atrial component of the intracavitary electrogram and radiological anatomy, showing the success rate and total time of radioscopy use. METHOD: From October 2001 to February 2005, 157 biventricular pacemaker implantations were performed in previously selected patients, using radiological anatomy and observation of the intracavitary electrogram, focusing on the atrial component. Here we show the success rate, complications and total time of radioscopy use. RESULTS: The implantation of the system employing left ventricular pacing via the coronary sinus was not possible in 11 patients. Difficulties in cannulation of the coronary ostium were felt in 20 patients and difficulties of lead advancement through the coronary sinus existed in 39 patients. The mean time of radioscopy use was 18.27 ± 15.46 minutes. CONCLUSION: The implantation technique, proposed by the author, using the atrial component morphology of the intracavitary electrogram and radiological anatomy proved to be safe and effective for the cannulation of the coronary sinus ostium requiring shorter radioscopy times.
Heart failure; Cardiomyopathy; Cardiac pacing
