How to Prevent and Manage Cardiac Device Infections

Increasing rates of device implantation and associated infections have prompted the American Heart Association to update its advice to clinicians.

Sponsoring Organization: American Heart Association (AHA), with endorsement from the Heart Rhythm Society

Background and Purpose: The use of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), such as pacemakers and defibrillators, has markedly increased as indications expand and the population ages. However, the incidence of CIED infections has risen even faster (JW Infect Dis Oct 28 2009), despite technological advances in implantation procedures and in the devices themselves. Accordingly, the AHA has updated its scientific statement on prevention and management of these infections.

Key Points:

1. Citing recent research, the authors identify several risk factors for CIED infection:

Immunosuppression, including renal dysfunction, diabetes, …

Reviewing Author

Mark S. Link, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsCirculation; UpToDate

Mark S. Link, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsCirculation; UpToDate