Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome after pacemaker implantation is a ve
ry rare complication. We present a 56-year-old man with severe swellin
g of the face, neck, and upper arms about 6 years after pacemaker impl
antation. Digital subtraction angiography showed occlusion of the left
innominate vein and severe stenosis of the SVC. The patient eventuall
y required surgical treatment, since anticoagulant therapy and balloon
venoplasty were not effective. We conclude that surgical repair is th
e most effective method for treating similar patients.