Do we need defibrillation threshold testing?: A pilot study

Abstract

Defibrillation threshold testing (DFT) is a standard procedure during implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation, however, it is not without risks. We compared the one-year follow-up period in ICD-implanted patients, with and without DFT performed during implantation, for preventive indication in regard to appropriate and inappropriate ICD detection and therapy. One group consisted of 20 patients without DFT; another was comprised of 20 patients where DFT had been performed. There was no difference in the development of ventricular tachyarrhythmias between the groups. Appropriate therapy of ICD was 100%. DFT is not a predictor for successful ICD detection and therapy of ventricular tachyarrhythmias.

Keywords

• implantable cardioverter defibrillator
• defibrillation threshold testing
• sudden cardiac death
• primary prevention
• heart failure
• treatment