Newer Indications for ICD and CRT

Abstract

The first implantable pacemaker was developed about 50 years ago. Since that time, cardiac implantable electronic device therapy (CIED) has undergone dramatic changes. Two of the most significant advances are the development of implantable defibrillators (ICDs) to treat ventricular tachyarrhythmias and prevent sudden death and left ventricular-based pacing to achieve cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In this article, the authors review the current indications for ICD and CRT, with particular emphasis on recent updates in guidelines. Many countries and regions of the world now have guidelines for CIED use. In this article, the authors only focus on US guidelines.

Keywords: Cardiac resynchronization therapy; Implantable cardioverter defibrillators; Primary prevention; Secondary prevention; Sudden cardiac death.