Acute coronary syndromes, aortic dissection, acute pulmonary embolism, and perforation of pacemaker leads can present similarly with chest pain, shortness of breath, possibly hypotension, and syncope, and need to be evaluated as appropriate.

What are the symptoms of a pacemaker lead dislodgement?

Pacemaker lead fracture is one of the most common causes of pacemaker malfunction and is most frequently associated with weight lifting or chest trauma. These patients usually present with symptoms of dizziness, syncope, chest discomfort, and palpitations or less commonly with extracardiac symptoms.

Can pacemaker leads become dislodged?

Discussion: Pacemaker leads are more likely to become dislodged in the first few days to weeks of placement, although the overall incidence is low(<1-2%).