lead-related infection
Infection involving cardiac device leads, typically requiring complete system extraction rather than antibiotics alone.
Full Definition
An infectious complication involving the intravascular or intracardiac portions of cardiac device leads, often manifesting as endocarditis or bacteremia. Lead-related infections are distinguished from pocket infections by their involvement of the lead system itself and typically require complete device and lead extraction followed by antibiotic therapy before potential reimplantation. These infections carry significant morbidity and mortality risks and represent one of the most serious complications of cardiac device therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate; distinguish from superficial pocket infections that may not require extraction.
In Context
- "The patient presented with lead-related infection requiring urgent extraction." — Case report
- "Lead-related infection rates were tracked as a primary safety endpoint." — Clinical trial protocol