The relationship between pocket hematoma and risk of wound infection among patients with a cardiovascular implantable electronic device: An integrative review

Abstract

BackgroundPocket hematoma is a common adverse event following the insertion of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), but the risk of wound infections associated with a pocket hematoma is unclear. ObjectivesThis integrative review aims to examine the relationship between pocket hematoma and risk of wound infection in a CIED population. MethodsA comprehensive literature search for articles assessing the relationship between pocket hematoma and infection in four electronic databases was conducted in October 2018. ResultsAfter screening and full text review, 7 studies met inclusion criteria (combined sample = 8,177 patients). Most studies (6/7) reported a significant relationship between pocket hematoma and all types of infection (OR = 6.9–24.98; p < 0.05). The proportion of wound infection among all types of infections was 61.5 - 100%. ConclusionsPocket hematoma is a significant risk factor for all types of infection, with the most frequent type of infection being wound infection.