THE MANAGEMENT OF EXPOSED CARDIAC-PACEMAKER PULSE-GENERATOR AND ELECTRODE USING RESTRICTED LOCAL SURGICAL INTERVENTIONS - SUBCAPSULAR RELOCATION AND VERTICAL-TO-HORIZONTAL BOW TRANSPOSITION TECHNIQUES

This paper describes an approach to the treatment of exposed pacemaker generator and electrode. Local infection is controlled by the administration of systemic antibiotics and topical antibacterial solutions. Because the generator and lead are enveloped by an inert synthetic coating, it is possible to eradicate an infection without their removal if it is due to a weak opportunist pathogen fully sensitive to antibiotics. Thereafter, subcapsular relocation of the exposed generator or vertical-to-horizontal transposition of the exteriorised lead is carried out. These surgical interventions are designed to overcome the vertical force which tends to cause the extrusion of the pacing hardware. © 1990 The Trustees of British Association of Plastic Surgeons. All rights reserved.