Arrhythmogenic mortality in heart-transplant candidates

Sudden cardiac death represents a major problem in patients awaiting heart transplantation (HTx). A retrospective analysis of 1019 patients accepted for HTx revealed a high actuarial risk for sudden death accounting to 14% after 1 year and 20% after 2 years waiting time. Underlying disease and hemodynamic characteristics had no predictive value. The use of implantable cardioverter/defibrillator therapy is discussed.