Importance of complete system removal of infected cardioverter-defibrillators

We describe a case of device infection after implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation managed by removal of all hardware except a portion of the epicardial sensing electrodes. Recurrent septic complications developed until all residual foreign material was eliminated. Despite anecdotal reports of successful management without device removal, extraction of all hardware components should be considered standard treatment for this complication.