[Cardiac implantable electronic device-related surgery as a perfect example for interdisciplinary cooperation]

The implantation of pacemakers and internal cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) is now carried out by specialists in surgical and conservative disciplines. The specialist training regulations for both cardiology and cardiac surgery currently include at least basic training in this area. Numerous offers of further training and specialization enable knowledge and practical techniques to be learned or optimized. The number of specialists with broad knowledge of less frequently used and current developments in rhythm implants is decreasing, particularly in surgical disciplines. An ideal way of utilizing the strengths of the respective specialist disciplines in terms of optimal patient care and training of young colleagues is close cooperation between the respective players. There are numerous "success models" for interdisciplinary cooperation that have been established for all procedures-including, in particular, complex revisions and electrode extractions-known as the "electrophysiological heart team".