Local complications in patients with cardiac implantable devices

Abstract

Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) such as pacemakers (PMs), implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), both with or without cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), became one of the fundamental therapies in present-day electrocardiology. The CIED patients population is increasing year by year due to a growing number of CIED implantations annually and a life prolongation among patients with CIEDs through better pharmacology combined with the proper electrotherapy and patient care. Invasive procedures related to CIED such as an implantation, a replacement or an up-grade of any kind electrotherapy device involves the risk of complications. Pocket hematoma or infection, which are local complications, should be recognized rapidly and treat properly in order to avoid more threatening systemic complications.