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Updated: May 22, 2026

A New Single Chamber Implantable Defibrillator with Atrial Sensing: A Practical Demonstration of Sensing and Ease of Implantation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Cardiac implantable electronic device therapy for bradyarrhythmias and tachyarrhythmias
Susan J Corcoran1, Lloyd M Davis
1Cardiology Department, Alfred Health, PO Box 315, Prahran, Victoria 3181, Australia.
Abstract:
Pacemakers originally were developed for patients with profound bradycardia and complete heart block who, without them, usually suffered from syncope, heart failure and an early demise. Since that time, devices have evolved to include pacing and shock therapies for the management of tachyarrhythmias and heart failure with the aim of improving quality, and if possible, length of life. Whether to insert a device depends on a balance between the potential benefits of device therapy and its risks, which are not inconsiderable. We discuss current agreed indications for pacemakers and implantable defibrillators and some current controversies surrounding their use.
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