The entirely subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is a safe and effective alternative to transvenous ICDs, particularly for patients at low risk for pacing.
The subcutaneous ICD is a safe and effective alternative to transvenous ICDs for preventing sudden cardiac death, particularly in patients who do not require pacing and are at high risk for lead complications.
Multiple randomized, multicenter trials have established the role of the implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) in the treatment and prevention of sudden cardiac death. However, transvenous ICD leads have significant short- and long-term complications, offsetting some of the benefit of this therapy. This has led to the development of the entirely subcutaneous ICD. This system is safe and effective, avoiding the need for intravascular leads. It is best suited for patients at low risk for pacing and increased risk for transvenous lead complications. Ongoing randomized and long-term registries will help identify the optimal role of this device in clinical practice.
Lewis et al. (Mon,) conducted a review in Sudden cardiac death. Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator vs. Transvenous ICD leads was evaluated. The entirely subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is a safe and effective alternative to transvenous ICDs, particularly for patients at low risk for pacing.