Sub-pocket small-hole drainage for pocket hematoma after cardiac device implantation.

AIMS Pocket hematoma is a common complication associated with cardiac device implantation, but there are limited strategies to deal with this problem. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of sub-pocket small-hole drainage (SSD) as a new way to manage severe pocket hematoma. METHODS A total of 11 patients with severe pocket hematoma were selected for this case series study. The SSD procedure was performed and wound healing was monitored. RESULTS The SSD procedure was successfully performed on all 11 patients. The time window for SSD was 10-14 days (mean 12.0 ± 1.3 days) after cardiac device implantation. On average, 18.3 ± 2.3 ml of hematoma was drained , with a mean procedural time of 21.3 ± 2.6 min. The patients were followed up for 4-12 months and all pockets healed well, without any complications such as pocket infection, bleeding, device exposure, and electrode fracture. CONCLUSION Sub-pocket small-hole drainage is an alternative approach for dealing with severe pocket hematoma after cardiac device implantation.