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Published on: February 28, 2012
Post-traumatic stress disorder in a patient with an implant cardioverter-defibrillator
Insights
Patients surviving medical device therapy may develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Early psychiatric intervention with Sertraline and supportive therapy can lead to remission, improving quality of life for these survivors.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Psychiatry
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Patients undergoing cardioverter-defibrillator implant therapy (CDIT) face risks of psychiatric comorbidities.
- The 'survivor' population, enabled by medical advancements, presents unique challenges in mental health assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a patient receiving CDIT.
- To highlight the effectiveness of psychiatric treatment in improving the quality of life for medical technology survivors.
Main Methods:
- A case report detailing a patient experiencing a blood pressure elevation and arrhythmia episode requiring CDIT.
- Pharmacological intervention with diazepam followed by Sertraline and supportive therapy.
- Psychiatric referral and assessment for PTSD symptoms.
Main Results:
- The patient received 9 defibrillating discharges within 24 hours, achieving stabilization.
- Initial treatment with diazepam was ineffective for PTSD.
- Sertraline (100 mg b.i.d.) and supportive therapy resulted in complete PTSD remission within 6 weeks.
Conclusions:
- Psychiatric comorbidity is a significant concern in patients treated with advanced medical devices like CDIT.
- Timely psychiatric assessment and tailored treatment, including pharmacotherapy and supportive care, are crucial for improving the quality of life in the 'survivor' population.
Abstract:
The authors describe a patient using cardioverter-defibrillator implant therapy (CDIT) after a blood pressure elevation and arrhythmia episode. The CDIT delivered 9 defibrillating discharges in a 24 hour period until a new stabilization was achieved. The patient developed a post-traumatic stress disorder with no improvement with the use of 15 mg of diazepam b.i.d. He was referred to a psychiatrist 4 months later, received Sertraline 100 mg b.i.d., and supportive therapy and achieved a total remission in 6 weeks. This case report illustrates the psychiatric comorbidity in the ¤ survivor' population, a group of patients who survive due to advances in medical technology. The psychiatric study of them is a challenge to the improvement of their quality of life. Assessment and treatment of mental disorder may improve the quality of life for this patient group.
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Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
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