Evaluating current implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation procedures: can common complications be minimised?

ABSTRACT

The implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is the cornerstone of treatment and prevention of malignant ventricular arrhythmias. Despite 30 years of experience, implantation of ICDs carries a risk of complications both during the procedure and long-term follow-up. Operator and procedure related factors may contribute to this risk. Furthermore, access, pocket, device and lead related problems occur, on top of problems related to arrhythmias and the patient themselves. Infection is the most feared complication, and its incidence seems to rise. Factors leading to complications are assessed, as well as measures to reduce these complications, including antibiotics and subcutaneous devices. Four patient categories with an increased risk are identified: the elderly with atrial fibrillation, diabetes or renal failure; the pediatric patient with or without congenital heart disease, the young patient with specific inherited diseases, and all those who undergo replacement, upgrade or concomitant lead extraction.

KEYWORDS:

• Sudden cardiac death
• infection
• implantable cardioverter defibrillator
• complication
• dislocation
• hematoma

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.