Guidelines: Implanted Devices for Treatment of Cardiac Arrhythmias

Indications for device therapy have burgeoned as risk factors for sudden cardiac death and heart failure have become increasingly well defined.

Sponsoring Organizations: American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, Heart Rhythm Society

Background and Purpose: Since these guidelines were last updated in 2002, an explosion in information has expanded the indications for placement of a permanent pacemaker (PPM), cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device, or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), particularly for primary prophylaxis of sudden cardiac death and heart failure.

Key Points (PPMs):

Recommended indications for single- and dual-chamber pacing have changed little:

1. Pacing for sinus node dysfunction or atrioventricular block is generally recommended in patients with symptomatic bradycardia.

2. Pacing in patients with asymptomatic bradycardia is recom…

Reviewing Author

Mark S. Link, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsCirculation; UpToDate

Mark S. Link, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsCirculation; UpToDate