What is the optimal timing of device replacement for patients with CIED infection?
The optimal timing of device replacement for patients with CIED infection is unknown. Some have advocated proceeding 24 hours after removal, while other investigators recommend waiting for blood cultures to be negative before a new device is placed. Simultaneous contralateral (side-to-side) replacement of an infected CIED has also been described, but with no prospective trial data that examined timing of new device replacement and risk of relapsing infection.