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Implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy.
1Pacemaker & Arrhythmia Services, The Heart Group, Inc, Akron, Ohio 44236, USA. Meltg@aol.com
The Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
|July 8, 2005
Summary
Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a significant global health issue, primarily caused by ventricular arrhythmias. Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) effectively prevent SCD and offer advanced treatment for various heart conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a major global health concern.
- Ventricular tachyarrhythmias are the primary cause of SCD in patients with known heart disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence supporting implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy.
- To describe current ICD devices and their clinical applications.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical development and technological advancements in ICDs.
- Analysis of clinical evidence for ICD efficacy in preventing SCD.
Main Results:
- ICDs have evolved from large, externally applied devices to smaller, transvenously implanted, and multiprogrammable systems.
- Modern ICDs treat not only ventricular arrhythmias but also bradyarrhythmias, atrial arrhythmias, and heart failure.
Conclusions:
- ICD therapy is a proven method for preventing SCD in selected patient groups.
- Technological progress has enhanced ICD functionality and patient care.