An Approach to Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Pocket Infections: from Prevention to Diagnosis and Management

Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infections are a highly morbid and potentially fatal complication of CIED implantation. Prompt diagnosis is paramount to the proper management of such infections. This review seeks to highlight the pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnostic approach, and prevention strategies for CIED infection, with an emphasis on pocket infection. Management will be discussed in detail, with complete device removal representing the standard of case, but with conservative management representing a potential alternative for patients at high risk for extraction. The high prevalence of CIED in the cardiac population renders understanding of this subject essential for the practicing clinician.