Management of Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices Infections in High-Risk Patients

The incidence of infection following implantation of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) is increasing, as is the number of pulse generator replacements and upgrades. The rate of infections is rising faster than the rate of device implantation, mainly due to the increasing age and number of comorbidities of patients receiving the devices. Patients with a CIED infection usually require hospitalisation, multiple consultations, prolonged intravenous antibiotics and, in the majority of cases, CIED explantation and replacement. A significant proportion die of their infection. CIED infection therefore represents a substantial health and economic burden, and management of infections is critical. Numerous risk factors have been identified including host, procedure and device-related factors. Established strategies for preventing CIED infections include intravenous antibiotics and aseptic techniques. The TYRX™ Absorbable Antibacterial Envelope offers potential as an effective method to reduce CIED infections. Several studies have found a statistically significant association between antibacterial envelope use and reduced incidence of CIED infection in high-risk patients. A prospective, randomised trial to further evaluate this potentially important strategy for CIED infection prophylaxis is underway.