Submammary placement of implantable cardioverter defibrillators: a Singapore plastic surgeon experience.

Author: Jun Chance GOH ¹ ; Elaine BOEY ² ; Pipin KOJODJOJO ² ; Nallathamby VIGNESWARAN ¹
Author Information

1. Division of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, Singapore.
2. Department of Cardiology, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital, Singapore.
Publication Type:Journal Article
Keywords: Singapore; implantable defibrillator; submammary
MeSH: Death, Sudden, Cardiac/prevention & control*; Defibrillators, Implantable; Female; Heart Diseases; Humans; Prosthesis Implantation/methods*; Singapore
From:Singapore medical journal 2022;63(1):47-50
CountrySingapore
Language:English
Abstract: The use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) in young women has been increasing in recent years owing to greater awareness about inherited cardiac conditions that increase the risk of sudden death. Traditional placement of ICDs in the infraclavicular region among young women often leads to visible scars, a constant prominence that causes irritation from purse or bra straps and can result in body image concerns and device-related emotional distress. In this case series, two women with long QT syndrome required placement of ICDs for prevention of sudden cardiac death. Submammary placement of ICDs was performed in collaboration with electrophysiologists. We describe our local experience and technique in submammary placement of ICDs as well as the challenges faced.