Infected cardiac-implantable electronic devices: prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Abstract

Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infection, according to current trends, appears to be an increasing problem. It can be indolent and its diagnosis challenging. Cardiac implantable electronic device infections are potentially lethal, and timely diagnosis and early initiation of correct treatment are of highest importance for patient prognosis. For reducing CIED infections, careful patient selection, preventative measures, and appropriate choice of device are key. The current review presents available data and consensus opinion within the field of CIED infection and identifies important current practice points and aspects for future development. Strategies for reducing CIED infection should be tested in sufficiently powered and well-designed multicentre randomized controlled trials.