Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 26, 2025
16:40
A New Single Chamber Implantable Defibrillator with Atrial Sensing: A Practical Demonstration of Sensing and Ease of Implantation
Published on: February 28, 2012
26.5K
A Tragic Case of Wearable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Failure
Ariel Vinas1, Debanshu Roy1, Cynthia Saunders1
1Department of Medicine and Division of Cardiology, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA.
JACC. Case Reports
|July 28, 2021
Summary
Wearable cardioverter defibrillators (WCDs) are recommended for arrhythmia protection. However, this case shows a WCD failed to detect and treat a critical event, highlighting the need for better detection technology.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Devices
- Clinical Case Reports
Background:
- The American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines endorse wearable cardioverter defibrillators (WCDs) for specific patient populations at risk of sudden cardiac death.
- WCDs are designed to detect and treat life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, providing a crucial safety net for patients.
Observation:
- This case report details a scenario where a WCD failed to detect a critical ventricular arrhythmia.
- The device did not deliver the necessary life-saving electrical therapy during the event.
Findings:
- The wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) demonstrated a failure in its primary function of detecting and treating a dangerous arrhythmia.
- This specific instance underscores a potential gap in current WCD technology.
Implications:
- There is a critical need for advancements in the detection algorithms used in wearable cardioverter defibrillators.
- Improved WCD technology is essential to ensure reliable protection against life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.
Keywords:
FFT, fast Fourier transformationICD, implantable cardioverter defibrillatorTruVector detection algorithmVF, ventricular fibrillationVT, ventricular tachycardiaWCD, wearable cardioverter defibrillators/p, status postventricular fibrillationventricular tachycardiawearable cardioverter defibrillator
Related Concept Videos
01:30Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
87
Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
87
01:23Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation III: AED Use
153
Introduction to AEDAn Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable medical device that analyzes the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, leading to a loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. In such emergencies, time is of the essence, and using an AED, combined with Cardiopulmonary...
153
01:29Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
73
Managing cardiomyopathy involves addressing underlying or precipitating causes, treating heart failure with medications, and implementing dietary changes and a balanced exercise and rest regimen.Lifestyle ModificationsCardiomyopathy patients should adopt a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and manage heart failure. A personalized exercise and rest plan helps maintain physical fitness without overstraining the heart. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is essential to prevent further damage to...
73
01:30Introduction Cardiac Emergencies
73
Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
73
01:29Cardiomyopathy VI: Nursing Management
83
Assessment: Nursing management of patients with cardiomyopathy begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's history, including a family history of cardiomyopathy or sudden cardiac death, personal history of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and any alcohol consumption or drug use.During the physical examination, assess vital signs, look for signs of heart failure (such as edema, jugular venous distention, and cyanosis), auscultate for abnormal heart sounds (like murmurs and gallops),...
83
01:29Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
101
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...
101