Incidence of cardiac implantable electronic device infections and migrations in Japan: Results from a 129 institute survey

BACKGROUND: We conducted a survey of the infection burden associated with the implantation of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in Japan. METHODS: The institutes were selected using annual device implantation data provided by Medtronic Japan Co., Ltd. The data sampling period was from January 1 to December 31, 2013. Institutes were classified into Group P, at which only pacemakers were implanted, and Group A, at which other CIEDs were implanted. Group P was further classified into three sub-groups by implantation number. The infection rate was compared between groups using logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: A total of 129 of 138 institutes responded. The annual infection rate was 1.12% for overall CIEDs. The institute at which 15–29 pacemakers were implanted had a high infection rate (2.11%). No statistically significant difference was observed (adjusted p=0.1131). The overall migration rate was 0.50%. Complete removal of the CIED system was performed in 55.8% of patients who underwent implantation. CONCLUSIONS: This survey was the first on CIED infection and migration in Japan. The CIED infection rate (1.12%) was similar to that previously reported. A high infection rate (2.77%) was observed in the infection experienced institutes.