The details of an unusual âghostâ after transvenous lead extraction: Three-dimensional computed tomography analysis

Transvenous lead extraction (TLE) is performed to prevent deaths in patients with device infections. Intracardiac masses detected by echocardiography, i.e., âghosts,â are reported in 8% of patients after a TLE in retrospective studies and in 14% in prospective studies. We herein describe a case with unusual ghosts after a TLE. Three-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) is useful for revealing all the details of unusual ghosts. In this case, the residual silicone insulation and âcast,â including the fibrous sheath and severe calcifications could be visualized and differentiated by 3DCT. Keywords: Transvenous lead extraction, Cardiac rhythm device, Device infection, Computed tomograph