If a leadless pacemaker device creates fibrosis over time, is it standard to develop LPs unable to remove? Is it based on short life expectancy?
Yes, early LPs were designed as non-removable because fibrosis made safe extraction unrealistic and most recipients had shorter life expectancy. The assumption was device life > patient life. Newer devices (e.g., Abbott Aveir) are retrievable, reflecting use in younger patients with longer horizons. Strategy has evolved from 'leave in place' to 'retrievable designs'.