Averting infections when implanting cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators.

A recent study conducted in New South Wales, Australia, examined the rate of infections following cardiac pacemaker and defibrillator implantation procedures. The study found that 1.1% of patients required re-hospitalization due to infections within twelve months of the procedure. Factors that increased the risk of infection included age, device type, previous procedures or infections, concomitant cardiac surgery, and certain medical conditions. The overall infection rate was consistent with international standards, and the identified risk factors were similar to those found in other studies. The study highlights the importance of adhering to aseptic techniques, using antibiotic prophylaxis, and having detailed discussions with patients about the risks associated with these procedures. [Extracted from the article]