Shock avoidance and the newer tachycardia therapy algorithms.

ABSTRACT

Sudden cardiac death is a leading cause of death in the United States and Europe. Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are a cornerstone of therapy for patients at risk of first occurrence of ventricular arrhythmia, or secondary prevention in those who have previously suffered cardiac arrest or life-threatening arrhythmias. Despite their efficacy, ICD shocks are associated with significant physical and psychological adverse effects. As technology has progressed, newer device programing methods have allowed for arrhythmia suppression and termination without the need for high-energy defibrillation, thus improving patient satisfaction, health, and outcomes.