What happens when there is a lead conductor break or fracture?

When there is a lead conductor break or fracture, a key consequence is that the impedance increases significantly, which disrupts the normal flow of electrical current intended for pacing the heart. Typically, leads are designed to conduct electrical impulses effectively; however, if there is a break in the lead, the pathway for the current becomes compromised. As a result, the current fails to effectively reach the heart. This situation leads to high impedance, meaning that the electrical resistance is elevated, which results in little to no current being delivered to stimulate the heart, potentially causing pacing failure.

This understanding is crucial because recognizing the implications of increased impedance can help healthcare providers identify issues related to pacing systems promptly and take appropriate actions to ensure patient safety and continuous cardiac support.