Soft Tissue and Skin Reinforcement with Acellular Dermal Matrix to Protect Implanted Cardioverters/Defibrillators and Pacemakers

Abstract

Cardiac pacemakers and implantable cardioverters/defibrillators are often placed in older patients with thin skin and scanty subcutaneous tissue. These devices and cardiac leads are at risk for progressive skin erosion and exposure leading to infection. To prevent this severe complication, we developed a reinforcing insertion of acellular dermal matrix. Twenty-two of 24 patients had successful implantation with long-term avoidance of skin erosion.