Abstract
Cardiac device-related endocarditis (CDE) is a phenomenon for which incidence is on
the rise; it presents difficult management problems to the clinician. On one hand,
there is the patient who needs the implanted device, and the potential morbidity and
mortality associated with its removal. On the other hand, there is the problem of
a persistent infection — usually acquired during insertion of an electrical device
— that is resistant to many antibiotics, has a high recurrence rate, and necessitates
an extensive operation to remove the device if removal is delayed. Most studies recommend
device and metal lead replacement if CDE occurs. The aim of the present review is
to raise awareness of CDE among clinicians, and to provide an appropriate approach
to its management.
