Long-term results of antitachycardia electrotherapy in ventricular tachyarrhythmia

Abstract

The development of the implantable defibrillator (AICD) is considered a major advancement in the therapy of the sudden death syndrome, since for the first time recurrent ventricular fibrillation could be treated by this device [1–4]. In most patients with recurrent circulatory arrest, ventricular tachycardia is the primary arrhythmia, which can be interrupted by antitachycardia pacing. Though antitachycardia pacing may initiate ventricular fibrillation, it has several advantages as primary electrical therapy in patients with recurrent ventricular tachycardia: (a) availability without delay; (b) no relevant depletion of batteries; (c) painlessness [5, 6]. In addition, anti-bradycardia pacing is possible. Since antitachycardia pacing systems with back up defibrillation have not been readily available, two separate units had to be implanted in selected patients with recurrent ventricular tachycardia [7]. The longterm results of these patients are reviewed.