Implantable Cardiac Devices in Patients with Brady- and Tachy-Arrhythmias: An Update of the Literature

Abstract

Implantable cardiac devices are a vital treatment option in the management of tachy/brady-arrhythmias and heart failure with conduction disease. In the recent years, these devices have become increasingly sophisticated, with high implantation success rates and longevity. However, these devices are not without risks and complications, which need to be carefully considered before implantation. In an era of rapidly evolving cardiac device therapies, this review article will provide an update on the literature and outline some of the emerging technologies that aim to maximise the efficiency of implantable devices and reduce complications. We discuss novel pacing techniques, including alternative pacing sites in anti-bradycardia and biventricular pacing, as well as the latest evidence surrounding leadless device technologies and patient selection for implantable device therapies.

Keywords

• pacemaker
• implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
• cardiac resynchronisation therapy
• tachy-arrhythmia
• brady-arrhythmia