Heart rhythm : the official journal of the Heart Rhythm Society
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Indications for cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are increasing. Although CIED infections occur infrequently, the impact of this outcome is expected to be substantial. ⋯ CIED infections are most often caused by Staphylococcus species, half of which are methicillin resistant. Percutaneous lead and device removal along with antibiotic therapy are effective as primary interventions. The overall relapse rate is 1.9%, and the relapse rate among patients who had reimplantation during the same hospitalization is 2.6%.