Related Experiment Videos
[Defibrillator therapy 1997. Prerequisites--results--prospects]
1Medizinische Klinik II, Universitätsklinik Marienhospital Herne, Ruhr-Universität Bochum.
Medizinische Klinik (Munich, Germany : 1983)
|July 15, 1997
Summary
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) effectively treat ventricular arrhythmias, significantly reducing sudden cardiac death. Modern ICDs offer advanced features with low operative risk for personalized patient therapy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Context:
- The first human cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implant occurred in 1980.
- Technological advancements have led to sophisticated ICDs with diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.
- This study analyzes data from 541 patients who received ICD implants between January 1984 and March 1997.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ICD implantation for treating life-threatening ventricular tachyarrhythmias.
- To compare outcomes between epicardial and transvenous ICD implantation methods.
Summary:
- Perioperative mortality was 2%, with higher rates for epicardial (6%) versus transvenous (0.3%) implants (p < 0.01).
- Over a mean follow-up of 28 months, 20% of patients died (3% suddenly).
- Antitachycardia pacing successfully terminated 79% of 8407 observed arrhythmic episodes, with low rates of infection (2%) and electrode complications (8%).
Impact:
- ICDs demonstrate effectiveness in reducing sudden cardiac death in patients with ventricular tachyarrhythmias.
- Modern ICDs provide individualized therapy with a low operative risk.
- The study highlights the evolving role and improved safety profile of ICDs in cardiac arrhythmia management.