Stay healthy
Learn more about your cardiac device
Heart devices, such as pacemakers and defibrillators, are a reliable and effective treatment for many heart rhythm issues. While complications are uncommon, they can occur and range from a lead malfunction to an infection.1,2 Empower yourself by learning what signs and symptoms to look out for and discover life-saving resources to help you become an active part in the shared decision-making process with your doctor.
What is a cardiac device? Sometimes the heart needs a little help to beat with a regular rhythm. Irregular heartbeats can be controlled and monitored with a cardiac device.
How does a cardiac device give support? Tiny electrical wires, called leads, connect your heart to the device. They allow the device to sense the rhythm of the heart and detect when the heart beats too fast or too slow. In return, the device paces the heart by sending electrical signals via the leads.
It’s important your device is maintained and managed properly as there is a connection between your device and your ongoing health. Here are some quick tips for living with your heart device.
But don’t worry: most infection can be treated!
Visit your device doctor or device clinic (where you get your device pocket checked) Explain your symptoms and remind them you have an implanted device. It is possible you will need additional treatments, which your device doctor will explain.
*Please note that these are the most common signs, there may be other signs not mentioned. This website is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In case of questions or uncertainty, contact your physician
Early diagnoses can lead to better results
This animated video shows what you can do to easily recognize a device infection. Learn what signs and symptoms to look out for so you can help physicians identify the treatment you need, faster.
Other interesting things to know about your device
The battery of the device typically requires replacement every 6-12 years
In most cases, leads remain untouched. Malfunction, breakage and infection may lead to replacement.
Shared decision making
Each heart device patient’s journey is different. Becoming a self-advocate and learning how to talk with your doctor will help you to be an active part in the shared decision-making process.
Your device in your control
What happens when the device needs to be removed?
When the decision is made that removal of your heart device is best for your health, a trained doctor will perform a lead extraction procedure.
Full system removal means that both the device and leads will be taken out. The procedure starts by making a small incision to access and remove the device. Your doctor may advance a flexible tube (sheath) over the lead, gently freeing the lead from surrounding tissue. The process will be continued until all targeted leads are safely extracted. Ask for more information from your device doctor, they will be happy to further explain.
Is this procedure safe?
A lead extraction is generally a very safe procedure. Although results and risks vary from patient to patient, several large studies show clinical success rates around 98%5 and the risk of major complications is less than 0.5%5.
Our mission is to provide you with relevant information about symptoms and treatment options for heart device infections and other complications. Patient education and initiatives on CIED infection are created in partnership with physicians and patients.
The resources found on this site may be printed and brought to your doctor appointment so you can discuss treatment options that best meet your needs.
