[Updated ESC guideline: innovations for the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias and recommendations for prevention of sudden cardiac death]

Abstract

The 2015 European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of sudden cardiac death is an update of the former 2006 European/American guidelines. This new consensus document gives a detailed overview on prevention and therapy of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. This includes detailed discussion of channelopathies and various cardiomyopathies. Gaps in evidence are identified and also discussed. DNA analysis and postmortem assessment in sudden cardiac death victims is for the first time part of these new recommendations. In addition, for the first time recommendations on subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) and the wearable defibrillator are given. The guidelines strengthen the role of ICD therapy in primary and secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death although data used as the basis for these recommendations are 10-15 years old and patients' characteristics including therapeutic options have changed during that time. Systematic reassessment of left ventricular function 6-12 weeks after infarction is also included as a new recommendation. The role of catheter ablation in electrical storm and for those presenting with a first episode of sustained ventricular tachycardia has also been upgraded in the new guidelines. Hopefully, the new guidelines will reach not only cardiologists and help to improve patient care, but also contribute to reducing the high number sudden cardiac deaths in Europe.

Keywords: ESC guidelines; Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator; Prevention; Sudden cardiac death; Ventricular arrhythmias.