Retention of pacemaker electrode complicated by Serratia marcescens septicemia. Removal with total cardiopulmonary bypass.

A case in which Serratia marcescens septicemia complicated the insertion of a transvernous pacemaker unit is reported. Appropriate antibiotic therapy and removal of the pacemaker electrode are two essential steps to achieve a complete cure in this stimulation. Open cardiotomy with total cardiopulmonary bypass provides a safe approach for withdrawal of an incarcerated electrode and is justified because of the lethal potential of systemic Serratia infections, particularly those superimposed on intracardiac prostheses.