Patients with a high defibrillation threshold: Approaches to management.

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) have revolutionized the prognosis for patients at elevated risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmias. For safety, defibrillation should be effective with a minimum of 10 J below the device's maximum energy. While modern ICDs rarely deliver ineffective shocks in primary prevention, the surge in managing severe heart failure patients has led to an increased number of patients with high defibrillation thresholds (DFTs). This article elucidates the potential causes of high DFT, including clinical factors, lead and device placement, the presence of a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), prolonged ventricular arrhythmias, shock vectors, waveform tilt, medications, and manufacturer-specific options. We also detail management strategies, highlighting alternative shock coil placements, practical recommendations, and case studies from our institution. Our management algorithm suggests addressing preventable causes, re-evaluating coil positions, considering non-invasive system modifications, upgrading to a higher-capacity device, and adding extra coil(s).

Entrapped Malecot catheter removal: Our experience.

Some surgeons use a Malecot catheter for drainage of intra-abdominal or mediastinal collections. These tubes are usually removed after 2-3 weeks. If left later, they may become entrapped due to the ingrowing of tissue, and fibrosis within the flower-like tip of the Malecot's catheter. Its removal then needs careful manipulation to prevent organ damage. We present our experience in ensuring the safe removal of such entrapped Malecot's catheters in liver abscess patients.