Infective endocarditis complicating permanent pacemaker and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator infection

Candida tropicalis defibrillator endocarditis: A case report and review of current literature

We provide a review of current literature and report on a case of electronic device infective endocarditis with C. tropicalis. A 64-year-old man presented for revision of his implantable cardioverter defibrillator. Echocardiography revealed extensive vegetations attached to the Eustachian valve and in the right ventricular apex. Microbiological findings presented C. tropicalis on the explanted material. The patient refused additional surgical intervention. We successfully treated the patient with liposomal Amphotericin B and Flucytosine for 8 weeks.

[Infective endocarditis and specific situations: Right heart, valve prosthesis, cardiac implantable electronic device]

Right-sided infective endocarditis (IE) represents 5-10% of IE. It may occur in patients with electronic intracardiac device, central venous catheter or congenital heart disease, but the most frequent situation is intravenous drug use. Prosthetic valve IE is the most severe form of IE. The diagnosis is more challenging than that of native valve IE, as is treatment, both antibiotic treatment and surgical indications. The infection of an electronic intracardiac device is a severe disease. Both diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are difficult.

Comparison of epicardial vs. endocardial reimplantation in pacemaker-dependent patients with device infection

Aims

Reimplantation of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) after extraction due to device infection is a major issue in pacemaker-dependent patients. We compared in-hospital and long-term outcomes with two techniques: epicardial reimplantation (EPI) before CIED extraction and temporary pacing (TP) with a view to delayed endocardial reimplantation.

Methods and results

Two cohorts of consecutive pacemaker-dependent patients who underwent transvenous lead extraction at our tertiary centre were included in this retrospective cohort study. According to successive policies, either the EPI or the TP approach was used. In-hospital complications occurred at similar rates in the EPI (n = 59) and TP (n = 52) cohorts (37.3% vs. 32.7%, respectively; P = 0.61). Thirteen (25.0%) patients in the TP cohort eventually were reimplanted epicardially, mainly because of infection of the temporary lead. Finally, 65 patients were discharged with an epicardial device and 37 with an endocardial device. Median follow-up was 41.7 (interquartile range 34.1-51.5) months. No difference was observed in long-term mortality according to the reimplantation strategy, but use of TP was associated with a reduced risk of late endocarditis and device reintervention (hazard ratio (HR) 0.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.09-0.069, P = 0.01), whereas epicardial device reimplantation was associated with an increased risk (HR 3.62, 95% CI 1.07-12.21, P = 0.04).

Conclusion

We observed similar in-hospital outcomes in our EPI and TP cohorts. Twenty-five percent of the patients initially paced by a TP strategy finally needed an epicardial device, mainly because of infection of their TP lead. Use of TP resulted in lower rates of late endocarditis and device reintervention.

Proposal for a Novel Score to Determine the Risk of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Infection

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

The use of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) has expanded in recent years. Infection related to these devices constitutes one of the main complications and is associated with high morbidity, mortality, and financial cost. The aim of this study was to construct a predictive risk score of acquiring CIED infection.

METHODS

We designed a retrospective, nested case-control study. Both cases and controls belonged to a cohort that included all patients who underwent a CIED-related procedure between January 2009 and December 2015. Cases were defined as patients with infection, and 3 infection-free controls were randomly selected from the cohort for each case included.

RESULTS

During the study period, 2323 procedures were performed. A total of 33 CIED-related infections were identified. Ninety-nine patients were selected as controls. Independent risk factors were the Charlson index (OR, 1.33; 95%CI, 1.07-1.67), oral anticoagulation (OR, 3.51; 95%CI, 1.44-8.54), revision or replacement of a previous device (OR, 2.75; 95%CI, 1.12-6.71) and the presence of more than 2 leads (OR, 3.42; 95%CI, 1.25-9.37). A predictive risk score was generated and denominated CIED-AI (Charlson Index, more than 2 leads/Electrodes, Device revision/replacement, oral Anticoagulation, previous Infection). This score had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.79 (95%CI, 0.71-0.88).

CONCLUSIONS

The CIED-AI score may help to identify patients at higher risk of infection, who could be candidates for intensive preventive measures.

Surgical treatment of right-sided infective endocarditis

OBJECTIVE

Right-sided infective endocarditis is increasing because of increasing prevalence of predisposing conditions, and the role and outcomes of surgery are unclear. We therefore investigated the surgical outcomes for right-sided infective endocarditis.

METHODS

From January 2002 to January 2015, 134 adults underwent surgery for right-sided infective endocarditis. Patients were grouped according to predisposing condition. Hospital outcomes, time-related death, and reoperation for infective endocarditis were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 127 patients (95%) had tricuspid valve and 7 patients (5%) pulmonary valve infective endocarditis; 66 patients (49%) had isolated right-sided infective endocarditis, and 68 patients (51%) had right- and left-sided infective endocarditis. Predisposing conditions included injection drug use (30%), cardiac implantable devices (26%), chronic vascular access (19%), and other/none (25%). One native tricuspid valve was excised, 76% were repaired or reconstructed, and 23% were replaced. Intensive care unit and postoperative hospital stays were similar among groups. Injection drug users had the best early survival (no hospital mortality), and patients with chronic vascular access had the worst late survival (18% at 5 years). Survival was worst for concomitant mitral valve versus isolated right-sided infective endocarditis or concomitant aortic valve infective endocarditis. Survival after tricuspid valve replacement was worse than after repair/reconstruction. Estimated glomerular filtration rate was the strongest risk factor for death, not predisposing condition. Eleven patients underwent 12 reoperations for infective endocarditis; more reoperations occurred in injection drug users (P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall outcomes after surgery are variable and affected by patient condition, not predisposing condition. Injection drug use carries a higher risk of reoperation for infective endocarditis. Earlier surgery may permit more valve repairs and improve outcomes. Whenever possible, tricuspid valve replacement should be avoided.

Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Device Infections

Infections associated with cardiac implantable electronic devices are increasing and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This article reviews the epidemiology, microbiology, and risk factors for acquisition of these infections. The complex diagnostic and management strategies associated with these serious infections are reviewed with an emphasis on recent updates and advances, as well as existing controversies. Additionally, the latest in preventative strategies are reviewed.

Long-term use of the wearable cardioverter defibrillator in patients with explanted ICD

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) use in protecting patients from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) while they were treated in nonhospital settings until re-implantation of an Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) was feasible. We sought to determine whether the WCD could be successfully utilized long term (≥1 year) after ICD extraction in patients at continued risk of SCD in which ICD re-implantation was not practical.

BACKGROUND

ICDs have proven to improve mortality in patients for both secondary and primary prevention of SCA. Increased ICD implantation in older patients with comorbid conditions has resulted in higher rates of cardiac device infections. Currently, a wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) is an alternative management for SCA prevention in specific cases.

METHODS

This a retrospective analysis based on consecutive WCD patients who underwent ICD explant due to device-related infections or mechanical reasons between April 2007 and July 2014. A total of 102 patients were identified from the national database maintained by ZOLL (Pittsburgh, PA, USA). We analyzed the reason for WCD use, demographic information, device data, compliance and duration of WCD use, detected arrhythmias and therapies, and reason for discontinuing WCD use.

RESULTS

In these long term WCD users, average length of WCD use was 638 ± 361 days. Nine patients (8.8%) had a sustained ventricular arrhythmia that was successfully resuscitated by the WCD. Six patients (5.8%) experienced inappropriate shocks. Two patients (1.9%) died of asystole events while wearing the WCD and an additional 10 patients died while not monitored by the WCD. Thirty-nine patients (38.2%) ended WCD use when a new ICD was implanted and 15 patients (14.7%) were still wearing the WCD at the time of analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that extending use of the WCD to ≥1 year is a safe and effective alternative treatment for patients with explanted ICDs who are not pacemaker dependent.

Cost-effectiveness of TYRX absorbable antibacterial envelope for prevention of cardiovascular implantable electronic device infection

AIMS

Infection is a major complication of cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) therapy that usually requires device extraction and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The TYRX Antibacterial Envelope is a polypropylene mesh that stabilizes the CIED and elutes minocycline and rifampin to reduce the risk of post-operative infection.

METHODS

A decision tree was developed to assess the cost-effectiveness of TYRX vs standard of care (SOC) following implantation of four CIED device types. The model was parameterized for a UK National Health Service perspective. Probabilities were derived from the literature. Resource use included drug acquisition and administration, hospitalization, adverse events, device extraction, and replacement. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated from costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs).

RESULTS

Over a 12-month time horizon, TYRX was less costly and more effective than SOC when utilized in patients with an ICD or CRT-D. TYRX was associated with ICERs of £46,548 and £21,768 per QALY gained in patients with an IPG or CRT-P, respectively. TYRX was cost-effective at a £30,000 threshold at baseline probabilities of infection exceeding 1.65% (CRT-D), 1.95% (CRT-P), 1.87% (IPG), and 1.38% (ICD).

LIMITATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

Device-specific infection rates for high-risk patients were not available in the literature and not used in this analysis, potentially under-estimating the impact of TYRX in certain devices. Nevertheless, TYRX is associated with a reduction in post-operative infection risk relative to SOC, resulting in reduced healthcare resource utilization at an initial cost. The ICERs are below the accepted willingness-to-pay thresholds used by UK decision-makers. TYRX, therefore, represents a cost-effective prevention option for CIED patients at high-risk of post-operative infection.

Right-sided infective endocarditis in cardiac device carriers: Clinical profile and prognosis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Due to the widespread indications for device implants and the population aging, right-sided infective endocarditis (RSIE) epidemiology has dramatically changed, being nowadays, cardiac device carriers the main affected group. The aim of this work is to describe the epidemiology, clinical profile and outcomes of RSIE in cardiac device carriers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We included definitive infective endocarditis episodes consecutively diagnosed in 3 tertiary centers from March 1995 to September 2014. A retrospective analysis of 85 variables, one-year follow up and univariate analysis of in-hospital mortality was conducted.

RESULTS

Among 1,182 episodes, 100 cardiac device carriers presented with RSIE (8.5%). Mean age±SD was 67±14 years. Staphylococcus spp. were the main causative microorganisms (coagulase-negative 44%, aureus 31%) and 37% were methicillin-resistant. Cardiac devices were removed in 95% of patients. In-hospital mortality was 8% and one-year mortality was 4%. Univariate analysis demonstrated that renal failure at admission (OR 6.2; 95% CI 1.3-30.3), septic shock (OR 8.9; 95% CI 1.7-47.9) and persistent infection during clinical course (OR 19.4; 95% CI 3-125.7) increase in-hospital mortality while device removal is a protective factor (OR 0.08; 95% CI 0.02-0.39).

CONCLUSIONS

RSIE have low in-hospital and one-year mortality. Coagulase-negative Staphylococci is responsible of almost half of the episodes and methicillin-resistant incidence is high. Device removal is mandatory since it decreases in-hospital mortality.

Presence of 'ghosts' and mortality after transvenous lead extraction

Aims

The number of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices has increased progressively, leading to an increased need for transvenous lead extraction (TLE) due to device infections. Previous studies described 'ghost' as a post-removal, new, tubular, mobile mass detected by echocardiography following the lead's intracardiac route in the right-sided heart chambers, associated with diagnosis of cardiac device-related infective endocarditis. We aimed to analyse the association between 'ghosts' assessed by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) and mortality in patients undergoing TLE.

Methods and results

We prospectively enrolled 217 patients (70 ± 13 years; 164 males) undergoing TLE for systemic infection (139), local device infection (67), and lead malfunction (11). All patients underwent TEE before and 48 h after TLE and ICE during TLE. Patients were allocated to two groups: either with (Group 1) or without (Group 2) post-procedural 'ghost'. Mid-term clinical follow-up was obtained in all patients (11 months, IQR 1-34 months). We identified 30 (14%) patients with 'ghost', after TLE. The significant predictors of 'ghost' were Charlson co-morbidity index (HR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.04-1.48, P = 0.03) and diagnosis of endocarditis assessed by ICE (HR = 1.82, 95% CI 1.01-3.29, P = 0.04). Mortality was higher in Group 1 than in Group 2 (28 vs. 5%; log-rank P < 0.001). Independent predictors of mid-term mortality were the presence of 'ghost' and systemic infection as the clinical presentation of device infection (HR = 3.47, 95% CI 1.18-10.18, P = 0.002; HR = 3.39, 95% CI 1.15-9.95, P = 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

The presence of 'ghost' could be an independent predictor of mortality after TLE, thus identifying a subgroup of patients who need closer clinical surveillance to promptly detect any complications.

Enhanced Antimicrobial Effects of Decellularized Extracellular Matrix (CorMatrix) with Added Vancomycin and Gentamicin for Device Implant Protection

BACKGROUND

The incidence of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infections has risen significantly over the past years. Although several devices are currently available to decrease the incidence of infection, most are made from nonviable synthetic material and are more prone to infection than vascularized tissue.

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to assess the resistance to infection of the CorMatrix CanGaroo (CorMatrix Cardiovascular, Roswell, GA, USA), a CIED envelope made of decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrated in different antibiotic solutions.

METHODS

This study was comprised of two in vitro tests and one animal trial. For all the tests, the ECM was hydrated in a mixture of vancomycin (25 mg/mL) and gentamicin (20 mg/mL) or gentamicin alone (40 mg/mL). The drug elution characteristics were assessed followed by the effectiveness of CanGaroo to prevent the bacterial growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis in culture. Then, the direct inoculation of pacemaker implant pockets with both Staphylococcus species was performed in rabbits implanted with either a pacemaker alone or a pacemaker with antibiotic-soaked CorMatrix ECM pouches.

RESULTS

The hydration of CanGaroo envelopes in both antibiotic mixtures resulted in antimicrobial activity against both Staphylococcus species, with an early bolus release of antibiotics followed by a slow release lasting for up to 6 days. In vivo, there was a substantial decrease in the occurrence of infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The hydration of the CanGaroo ECM with an antibiotic solution prevented Staphylococcus species growth in vitro and substantially reduced the incidence of CIED pocket infections in an in vivo rabbit model.

Tricuspid valve endocarditis

Right-sided infective endocarditis (RSIE) is less common than left-sided infective endocarditis (IE), encompassing only 5-10% of cases of IE. Ninety percent of RSIE involves the tricuspid valve (TV). Given the relatively small numbers of TVIE cases operated on at most institutions, the purpose of this review is to highlight and discuss the current understanding of IE involving the TV. RSIE and TVIE are strongly associated with intravenous drug use (IVDU), although pacemaker leads, defibrillator leads and vascular access for dialysis are also major risk factors. Staphylococcus aureus is the predominant causative organism in TVIE. Most patients with TVIE are successfully treated with antibiotics, however, 5-16% of RSIE cases eventually require surgical intervention. Indications and timing for surgery are less clear than for left-sided IE; surgery is primarily considered for failed medical therapy, large vegetations and septic pulmonary embolism, and less often for TV regurgitation and heart failure. Most patients with an infected prosthetic TV will require surgery. Concomitant left-sided IE has its own surgical indications. Earlier surgical intervention may potentially prevent further destruction of leaflet tissue and increase the likelihood of TV repair. Fortunately, TV debridement and repair can be accomplished in most cases, even those with extensive valve destruction, using a variety of techniques. Valve repair is advocated over replacement, particularly in IVDUs patients who are young, non-compliant and have a higher risk of recurrent infection and reoperation with valve replacement. Excising the valve without replacing, it is not advocated; it has been reported previously, but these patients are likely to be symptomatic, particularly in cases with septic pulmonary embolism and increased pulmonary vascular resistance. Patients with concomitant left-sided involvement have worse prognosis than those with RSIE alone, due predominantly to greater likelihood of invasion and abscess formation in left-sided IE. Patients with isolated TVIE have an operative mortality between 0-15% and excellent survival.

Could Externalized St. Jude Medical Riata® Lead Be a Culture Medium of a Polymicrobial Endocarditis? A Clinical Case

We report the case of a man affected by polymicrobial endocarditis developed on a St. Jude Medical Riata lead with a malfunction because of the outsourcing of conductors. The patient was treated with antibiotic targeted therapy and showed different bacteria at the blood cultures and then underwent transvenous leads extraction. Vegetations were highlighted on the caval, atrial, and ventricular tracts of the Riata lead, but the cultures were all negative. The externalization of Riata lead may cause the malfunction but it could also promote bacterial colonies and vegetations. In conclusion, looking for early signs of infection is mandatory during Riata leads follow-up checks.

Outcomes of Transvenous Lead Extraction for Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Device Infections in Patients With Prosthetic Heart Valves

Background—

Lead-related or valve-related endocarditis can complicate cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) infection in patients with both CIED and prosthetic valves. The objective of this study was to determine the outcomes of transvenous lead extraction for CIED infection in patients with prosthetic valves.

Methods and Results—

We retrospectively screened 794 transvenous lead extraction procedures, between September 1, 2001 and August 31, 2012, at Mayo Clinic to identify patients with prosthetic valves who underwent lead extraction for infection. Demographic, clinical, and follow-up characteristics were analyzed. In total, 51 patients (6%) met the study inclusion criteria, of whom 20 had pocket infection and 31 had lead-related or valve-related, or both, endocarditis or bloodstream infection (mean age, 67 [18] years). Staphylococcal species were the most common pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus in 20 cases (39%) and coagulase-negative staphylococci in 19 cases (37%). Overall, 127 transvenous leads (median lead age, 52 months) were extracted. Of these leads, 123 (97%) were removed completely. The in-hospital mortality rate was 9.8%; no deaths were attributable to the extraction procedure. Ninety-five percent of patients who survived had no evidence of recurrent device-related or valve-related infection.

Conclusions—

Transvenous lead extraction seems safe and curative in patients with CIED infection and prosthetic valves. Cure of infection can be achieved in the majority of patients with complete CIED removal and antimicrobial therapy and without valve surgery.

Management of bacteremia in patients living with cardiovascular implantable electronic devices

Cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) have become a critical component in management of patients with cardiac rhythm disturbances, heart failure, and prevention of sudden cardiac death. However, infection remains a major complication of CIED implantation and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality for device recipients. Early-onset CIED infections frequently originate from the generator pocket, secondary to device or pocket contamination at the time of implantation, and may progress to involve device leads or cardiac valves. However, hematogenous seeding of the device leads from a remote source of bacteremia is not infrequent in patients with late-onset CIED infections. Whereas CIED pocket infection can be diagnosed in the majority of cases based on physical findings at the pulse generator site, device lead infection may only manifest with fever and positive blood cultures. However, not every patient with a CIED and positive blood cultures has underlying CIED lead infection. Consequently, management of bacteremia in a CIED recipient without local signs of infection presents a significant challenge. The risk of underlying CIED lead infection in patients presenting with bacteremia depends on several factors, including the type of microorganism isolated in blood cultures, duration and source of bacteremia, type of CIED, and number of device-related procedures. These risk factors must be considered when making decisions regarding the need for further diagnostic imaging and whether to retain or remove the device. In this article, we review the published data regarding risk of CIED infection in patients presenting with bacteremia and propose an algorithm for appropriate evaluation and management.

Calm Before the Storm: An Uncomplicated Epicardial Lead Extraction Resulting in DIC and Patient Demise

A previously stable 77-year-old man with significant cardiac history underwent an uneventful extraction of a Citrobacter-infected and eroded pacemaker lead. His postoperative course was acutely complicated by respiratory failure and quickly progressed into disseminated intravascular coagulation, acute renal failure, shock liver, and ventricular tachycardic arrest. I believe that this is the first case report of such a drastic turn of events after a routine pacemaker lead extraction.

HACEK endocarditis: a review

INTRODUCTION

The HACEK group, referring to Haemophilus spp., Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Cardiobacterium hominis, Eikenella corrodens, and Kingella kingae, is a rare cause of infective endocarditis (IE). It causes the majority of Gram-negative endocarditis cases and has an excellent prognosis and simple management if properly identified. However, delay in diagnosis and associated complications can render the infection fatal.

AREAS COVERED

Over the past few decades, there have been tremendous advancements in understanding the manifestations and progression of HACEK endocarditis (HE). This review tackles the epidemiology of HE, the microbiological characteristics of each organism in the HACEK group, the methods used to diagnose HE, the clinical manifestations, complications, and mortality of patients with HE, as well as the recommended treatment and preventive methods. Expert Commentary: The lack of robust randomized controlled trials in diagnosis and treatment of HE makes it difficult to determine the optimal management of such infections. Nevertheless, advancements in culturing methods have shown progress in isolating and identifying these fastidious organisms. Positive blood cultures for any of the HACEK organisms in the setting of no definite focus of infection is highly suggestive of HE. In such cases, treatment with ceftriaxone or a fluoroquinolone, even without obtaining antibiotic susceptibilities, should be initiated. Moreover, the decision to proceed with surgical intervention should be individualized. As is the case for other IE, HE requires the collaboration of a multidisciplinary team consisting of the infectious disease specialist, cardiologist, cardiothoracic surgeon, and the microbiologist.

An Approach to Improve the Negative Predictive Value and Clinical Utility of Transthoracic Echocardiography in Suspected Native Valve Infective Endocarditis

BACKGROUND

In patients with suspected native valve infective endocarditis, current guidelines recommend initial transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) followed by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) if clinical suspicion remains. The guidelines do not account for the quality of initial TTE or other findings that may alter the study's diagnostic characteristics. This may lead to unnecessary TEE when initial TTE was sufficient to rule out vegetation.

METHODS

The objective of this study was to determine if the use of a strict definition of negative results on TTE would improve the performance characteristics of TTE sufficiently to exclude vegetation. A retrospective analysis of patients at a single institution with suspected native valve endocarditis who underwent TTE followed by TEE within 7 days between January 1, 2007, and February 28, 2014, was performed. Negative results on TTE for vegetation were defined by either the standard approach (no evidence of vegetation seen on TTE) or by applying a set of strict negative criteria incorporating other findings on TTE. Using TEE as the gold standard for the presence of vegetation, the diagnostic performance of the two transthoracic approaches was compared.

RESULTS

In total, 790 pairs of TTE and TEE were identified. With the standard approach, 661 of the transthoracic studies had negative findings (no vegetation seen), compared with 104 studies with negative findings using the strict negative approach (meeting all strict negative criteria). The sensitivity and negative predictive value of TTE for detecting vegetation were substantially improved using the strict negative approach (sensitivity, 98% [95% CI, 95%-99%] vs 43% [95% CI, 36%-51%]; negative predictive value, 97% [95% CI, 92%-99%] vs 87% [95% CI, 84%-89%]).

CONCLUSIONS

The ability of TTE to exclude vegetation in patients is excellent when strict criteria for negative results are applied. In patients at low to intermediate risk with strict negative results on TTE, follow-up TEE may be unnecessary.

Management of Cardiac Electronic Device Infections: Challenges and Outcomes

Cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infection is an increasing problem. Reasons for this are uncertain, but likely relate to an increasing proportion of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) devices implanted, as well as implantations in 'higher risk' candidates, i.e. patients with heart failure, diabetes and renal failure. Challenges within the field of CIED infections are multiple with prevention being the most important challenge. Careful prescription of CIED treatment and careful patient preparation before implantation is important. Diagnosis is often difficult and delayed by subtle signs of infection. Treatment of CIED infection includes complete system removal in centres experienced in CIED extraction and prolonged antibiotic therapy. Meticulous planning and preparation before system extraction and later CIED re-implantation is essential for better patient outcome. Future strategies for reducing CIED infection should be tested in sufficiently powered, multicentre, randomised controlled trials.

Fistula Formation 6 Years after Removal of Infected Pacemaker Leads

We describe a case of a male patient who presented with a chronic ulcer below the left clavicle. Six years before the present admission a permanent pacemaker, including leads, was explanted related to endocarditis. The initial working hypothesis suspected an infected sebaceous gland as the cause of ulceration. After two periods of unsuccessful surgical treatment of the gland, further examination identified a small pacemaker lead fragment underneath the articulation between sternum and clavicle as a possible reason.

Conservative therapy for the management of cardiac implantable electronic device infection

Along with the increased frequency of implantation, the incidence of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infection, which can have serious or fatal complications, has also increased. Although several successful conservative therapies for CIED infection have been reported, retained infected devices remain a source of relapse, which is closely related to a higher mortality rate. Presently, complete hardware removal is initially recommended for infected CIED patients, and indications for conservative therapy, including continuous administration of antibiotics, require careful consideration.

On the other hand, complete removal is not required for superficial or incisional infection at the device pocket if an infection does not involve the device, but the patient should be closely followed for progression to deeper infection, which would require extraction.

CIED infection with either pocket or systemic infection presentation--complete device removal and long-term antibiotic treatment; long-term outcome

OBJECTIVE

Cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) infections are increasing in numbers. The objective was to review the clinical presentation and outcome in patients affected with CIED infections with either local pocket or systemic presentation.

DESIGN

All device removals due to CIED infection during the period from 2005 to 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. CIED infections were categorized as systemic or pocket infections. Treatment included complete removal of the device, followed by antibiotic treatment of six weeks.

RESULTS

Seventy-one device removals due to infection (32 systemic and 39 pocket infections) were recorded during the study period. Median follow-up time was 26 (IQR 9-41) months, 30 day and 12 month mortality were 4% and 14%, respectively. There was no long-term difference in mortality between patients with pocket vs. systemic infection (p = 0.48). During follow-up no relapses and two cases of new infections were noted (2.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

CIED infection with systemic or pocket infection was difficult to distinguish in clinical presentation and outcome. Complete device removal and antibiotic treatment of long duration was safe and without relapses.

The diagnostic ability of echocardiography for infective endocarditis and its associated complications

Echocardiography, transthoracic and transoesophageal, plays a key role in the diagnosis and prognosis assessment of patients with infective endocarditis. It constitutes a major Duke criterion and is pivotal in treatment guiding. Seven echocardiographic findings are major criteria in the diagnosis of infective endocarditis (IE) (vegetation, abscess, pseudoaneurysm, fistulae, new dehiscence of a prosthetic valve, perforation and valve aneurysm). Echocardiography must be performed as soon as endocarditis is suspected. Transoesophageal echocardiography should be done in most cases of left-sided endocarditis to better define the anatomic lesions and to rule out local complications. Transoesophageal echocardiography is not necessary in isolated right-sided native valve IE with good quality transthoracic examination and unequivocal echocardiographic findings. Echocardiography is a very useful tool to assess the prognosis of patients with IE at any time during the course of the disease. Echocardiographic predictors of poor outcome include presence of periannular complications, prosthetic dysfunction, low left ventricular ejection fraction, pulmonary hypertension and very large vegetations.

Candida and cardiovascular implantable electronic devices: a case of lead and native aortic valve endocarditis and literature review

Use of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIED), including permanent pacemakers (PPM) and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD), has increased dramatically over the past two decades. Most CIED infections are caused by staphylococci. Fungal causes are rare and their prognosis is poor. To our knowledge, there has not been a previously reported case of multifocal Candida endocarditis involving both a native left-sided heart valve and a CIED lead. Here, we report the case of a 70-year-old patient who presented with nausea, vomiting, and generalised fatigue, and was found to have Candida glabrata endocarditis involving both a native aortic valve and right atrial ICD lead. We review the literature and summarise four additional cases of CIED-associated Candida endocarditis published from 2009 to 2014, updating a previously published review of cases prior to 2009. We additionally review treatment guidelines and discuss management of CIED-associated Candida endocarditis.

Surgical management of tricuspid valve endocarditis in the current era: A review

The incidence of isolated tricuspid valve infective endocarditis is increasing. Medical management is the mainstay of treatment but surgical intervention is required in a subset of patients. Surgical treatment options include valve excision and replacement or valve reconstruction. We searched PubMed and the Cochrane library to identify articles to be included in this review of surgical outcomes. References of selected articles were crosschecked for other relevant studies. Surgical management of tricuspid valve endocarditis can be achieved with satisfactory outcomes. However, the optimal indication and timing of surgery remain unclear, and the frequent association with intravenous drug use complicates management. Repair techniques are preferable though there is no clear evidence supporting one method over another.

Lead-Dependent Infective Endocarditis: The Role of Factors Predisposing to Its Development in an Analysis of 414 Clinical Cases

BACKGROUND

Lead-dependent infective endocarditis (LDIE) is a serious and insidious infective disease spreading along the leads to valve leaflets and endocardial surface. LDIE is still a lesser known disease with unclear risk factors, most often evaluated jointly for all infectious complications.

METHODS

Clinical data from 414 patients with the diagnosis of LDIE according to the Modified Duke Leads Criteria were analyzed. Patients with LDIE were identified in a population of 1,426 subjects submitted to transvenous lead extraction (TLE) in the Reference Center on Lead Extraction in Lublin, Poland, between March 2006 and July 2013 due to infectious (619 patients-43.4%) and noninfectious (807-56.6% of patients) reasons. During the period of 2006-2011, the analysis was conducted retrospectively; from early 2012 on, patients were enrolled prospectively. The effect of potential risk factors on the development of the disease was evaluated in a comparative analysis of clinical data from the LDIE patients and from 807 subjects with noninfectious indications for TLE. Additionally, in order to identify the factors predisposing to the development of LDIE, the population of infectious patients was divided into three subgroups: with isolated LDIE (157 patients), with LDIE and pocket infection (PI; 257 patients), and with isolated PI (205 patients). The groups and subgroups were analyzed for the presence of patient-dependent risk factors (age, gender, accompanying diseases, anticoagulation, or antiplatelet therapy) and procedure-related risk factors (the number and lead dwell time, pacing system, prior procedures, lead loops, and intracardiac abrasion of the leads). Furthermore, microbes' identification was conducted.

RESULTS

The LDIE patients were older (67.3 vs 62.3; P = 0.001) and were more frequently male (68.6% vs 55.0%; P = 0.001) as compared with patients submitted to TLE for noninfectious reasons, but not in comparison with subjects diagnosed with isolated LDIE. In univariate analysis, the independent prognostic factors of LDIE were: type 2 diabetes-increase of risk by 37.7% (hazard ratio [HR] = 1,377; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1,088-1,742]), elevated above 2 mg% creatinine level-increase of risk by 61.5% (HR = 1,615; 95% CI [1,96-2,182]), antiplatelet therapy (HR = 1,285; 95% CI [1,052-1,057]), number of intracardiac leads prior to TLE (HR = 1,199; 95% CI [1,075-1,337]), intracardiac device with implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) lead (HR = 1,909; 95% CI [1,492-2,444]), intracardiac device with coronary sinus lead (HR = 1,411; 95% CI [1,099-1,810]), number of procedures prior to TLE (HR = 1,092; 95% CI [1,017-1,172]), and abrasion of intracardiac leads (HR = 1,350; 95% CI [1,097-1,662]). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that the independent risk factors of LDIE were: chronic renal failure (HR = 1,406; 95% CI [1,033-1,915]), number of intracardiac leads prior to TLE (HR = 1,152; 95% CI [1,017-1,305]), intracardiac devices with ICD leads (HR = 1,719; 95% CI [1,330-2,223]), and presence of abrasion of intracardiac leads (HR = 1,405; 95% CI [1,129-1,750]). Microbiological analysis showed the domination of coagulase-negative staphylococci with relative advantage of Staphylococcus epidermidis in pathogenesis of LDIE.

CONCLUSIONS

The factors predisposing to LDIE are mainly related to procedures performed on the patients. LDIE develops more frequently in patients with multiple leads, especially ICD. An important, until now lesser known, risk factor for LDIE is intracardiac abrasion of the leads strongly connected with procedural agents and properties of specific kind of bacteries. A new concept of the pathogenesis of LDIE was proposed on the basis of present analysis.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Device Infections in Turkey

Infection is one of the most devastating outcomes of cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation and is related to significant morbidity and mortality. In our country, there is no evaluation about CIED infection. Therefore, our aim was to investigate clinical characteristics and outcome of patients who had infection related to CIED implantation or replacement. The study included 144 consecutive patients with CIED infection treated at 11 major hospitals in Turkey from 2005 to 2014 retrospectively. We analyzed the medical files of all patients hospitalized with the diagnosis of CIED infection. Inclusion criteria were definite infection related to CIED implantation, replacement, or revision. Generator pocket infection, with or without bacteremia, was the most common clinical presentation, followed by CIED-related endocarditis. Coagulase-negative staphylococci and Staphylococcus aureus were the leading causative agents of CIED infection. Multivariate analysis showed that infective endocarditis and ejection fraction were the strongest predictors of in-hospital mortality.

Clinical use of antibacterial mesh envelopes in cardiovascular electronic device implantations

Cardiovascular implantable electronic device system infection is a serious complication of cardiac device implantation and carries with it a risk of significant morbidity and mortality. In the last 15 years, expansions of indications for cardiac devices have resulted in much higher volumes of much sicker patients being implanted, carrying significant risk of infection. Coagulase (-) Staphylococcus and Staphylococcus aureus are responsible for the majority of these infections, and these organisms are increasingly resistant to methicillin. The Aigis™ envelop is a Food and Drug Administration-approved implantable mesh that is impregnated with antibiotics that can be placed in the surgical incision prior to closure. The antibiotics elute off the mesh for 7-10 days, providing in vivo surgical site coverage with rifampin and minocyclin. This paper reviews the three retrospective clinical trials published in peer-reviewed journals and the interim analysis of the two ongoing prospective trials that have been presented at international conferences. Overall consensus is that the Aigis™ offers significant risk reduction for cardiovascular implantable electronic device infection. We then give a comprehensive discussion of how to use the Aigis™ envelop in the clinical setting, comparing the manufacturer's recommendations with our extensive clinical experience.

Predicting risk of endovascular device infection in patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (PREDICT-SAB)

BACKGROUND

Prompt recognition of underlying cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) infection in patients presenting with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) is critical for optimal management of these cases. The goal of this study was to identify clinical predictors of CIED infection in patients presenting with SAB and no signs of pocket infection.

METHODS AND RESULTS

All cases of SAB in CIED recipients at Mayo Clinic from 2001 to 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. We identified 131 patients with CIED who presented with SAB and had no clinical signs of device pocket infection. Forty-five (34%) of these patients had underlying CIED infection based on clinical or echocardiographic criteria. The presence of a permanent pacemaker rather than an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (odds ratio, 3.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.65-9.23; P=0.002), >1 device-related procedure (odds ratio, 3.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.23-8.86; P=0.018), and duration of SAB ≥4 days (odds ratio, 5.54; 95% confidence interval, 3.32-13.23; P<0.001) were independently associated with an increased risk of CIED infection in a multivariable model. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for the multivariable model was 0.79, indicating a good discriminatory capacity to distinguish SAB patients with and without CIED infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients presenting with SAB and no signs of pocket infection, the risk of underlying CIED infection can be calculated based on the type of device, number of device-related procedures, and duration of SAB. We propose that patients without any of these high-risk features have a low risk of underlying CIED infection and may be monitored closely without immediate device extraction. Prospective studies are needed to validate this risk prediction model.

Clinical classification and prognosis of isolated right-sided infective endocarditis

From an epidemiologic point of view, right-sided infective endocarditis (RSIE) affects different types of patients: intravenous drug users (IDUs), cardiac device carriers (pacemakers and implantable automatic defibrillators), and the "3 noes" endocarditis group: no left-sided, no IDUs, no cardiac devices. Our objective is to describe and compare the clinical profile and outcome of these groups of patients. Every episode of infective endocarditis (IE) consecutively diagnosed in 3 tertiary centers from 1996 to 2012 was included in an ongoing multipurpose database. We assessed 85 epidemiologic, clinical, echocardiographic, and outcome variables in patients with isolated RSIE. A bivariated comparative analysis between the 3 groups was conducted.Among 866 IE episodes, 121 were classified as isolated RSIE (14%): 36 IDUs (30%), 65 cardiac device carriers (54%), and 20 "3 noes" group (16%). IDUs were mainly young men (36 ± 7 years) without previous heart disease, few comorbidities, and frequent previous endocarditis episodes (28%). Human immunodeficiency virus infection was frequent (69%). Cardiac device carriers were older (66 ± 15 years) and had less comorbidities (34%). Removal of the infected device was performed in 91% of the patients without any death. The "3 noes" endocarditis group was composed mainly by middle-age men (56 ± 18 years), health care related infections (50%), and had many comorbidities (75%). Whereas Staphylococcus aureus were the most frequent cause in IDUs (72% vs 34% in device carriers and 34% in the "3 noes" group, P = 0.001), coagulase negative Staphylococci predominated in the device carriers (58% vs 11% in drug users and 35% in the "3 noes", P < 0.001). Significant differences in mortality were found (17% in drug users, 3% in device carriers, and 30% in the "3 noes" group; P < 0.001). These results suggest that RSIE should be separated into 3 groups (IDUs, cardiac device carriers, and the "3 noes") and considered as independent entities as there are relevant epidemiologic, clinical, microbiological, echocardiographic, and prognostic differences among them.

Management of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Infection

Despite improved preventive measures, infection associated with the use of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) to treat often life-threatening conditions is rising at an average annual rate of almost 5 %. This rise is being driven by the increasing complexity of CIED technology and by the advancing age and co-morbidities of the patients. Although CIED infection is usually suspected based on local signs at the generator pocket site, diagnosis can be challenging in patients presenting no local manifestations or symptoms. Diagnostic methods include microbiological testing and echocardiography, and may be completed by positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) scan in selected cases. CIED infection requires a multidisciplinary approach in view of hardware extraction, targeted antibiotic therapy and reimplantation on an as-needed basis. Antibiotic prophylaxis targeting staphylococcal flora is recommended but the relation of these infections to medical care exposes patients to multi-resistant bacteria. New preventive measures utilising an antibacterial sleeve look promising. Treatment can be started on an empirical basis using an antistaphylococcal agent but must be continued using targeted antibiotic therapy. Crucial questions remain as to the best prevention strategy, optimal duration and timing of antibiotic therapy, and the most effective reimplantation technique.