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Additional file 1. Supplementary Figures.

Additional file 2. Supplementary Table.

ObjectivesThis study sought to examine the safety and efficacy of laser-assisted lead extraction and the indications, outcomes, and risk factors in a large series of consecutive patients.BackgroundThe need for lead extraction has been increasing in direct relationship to the increased numbers of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices.MethodsConsecutive patients undergoing transvenous laser-assisted lead extraction at 13 centers were included.ResultsBetween January 2004 and December 2007, 1,449 consecutive patients underwent laser-assisted lead extraction of 2,405 leads (20 to 270 procedures/site). Median implantation duration was 82.1 months (0.4 to 356.8 months). Leads were completely removed 96.5% of the time, with a 97.7% clinical success rate whereby clinical goals associated with the indication for lead removal were achieved. Failure to achieve clinical success was associated with body mass index 10 years and when performed in low volume centers. Major adverse events in 20 patients were directly related to the procedure (1.4%) including 4 deaths (0.28%). Major adverse effects were associated with patients with a body mass index