The Role of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators in Ischemic and Non-Ischemic Cardiomyopathy and Effect on Mortality and Sudden Death

Abstract

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) have evolved from a treatment of last resort to the current and rapidly growing use as a first line therapeutic option. Early clinical trials captured what had only been apparent in observational studies that subsequently paved the way for the utilization of ICDs as secondary prevention in patients who had survived life-threatening arrhythmias. As a result, these randomized clinical trials exhibited a benefit with ICD only in high-risk patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. However, recent studies have been able to demonstrate a significant role for primary prevention in selected high-risk patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy.