What’s in a Name? Utilization of the Innominate Vein for Pacemaker Lead Placement in the Setting of Persistent Left Superior Vena Cava

Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) represents the most common thoracic venous anomaly and is an important clinical entity for cardiologists and electrophysiologists, among others. In approximately 30% of cases, a bridging innominate vein connects the left superior vena cava to the right. The present report highlights the value of defining the venous anatomy with a case of dual-chamber pacemaker implantation in the PLSVC with the right ventricular lead placed via the innominate vein. Pertinent considerations for device implantation in the setting of this anomaly are discussed and relevant venography reviewed.