Anaesthetic management in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices

Abstract

Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices (CIEDs) are special devices which are implanted in to human body to treat various cardiac rhythm disorders and heart failure. Anaesthesiologists are now starting to encounter more patients with CIEDs undergoing various surgeries. Hence, it is of paramount importance to know about these devices and its management peri-operatively. Good communication between the anaesthetist, CIED team and surgeon is essential. Understanding the basic functioning of CIEDs and making a detailed preoperative plan can help anticipate and avoid most of the complications. Knowledge about managing intraoperative complications such as dysrhythmias is essential. All these combined with a vigilant monitoring even in the postoperative period is the key for a successful outcome.