Publication Date

2014

Journal Title

Tex Heart Inst J

Abstract

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are the standard of care for preventing sudden cardiac death in patients who are predisposed to malignant ventricular arrhythmias. Causes of inappropriate ICD shock include equipment malfunction, improper arrhythmia evaluation, misinterpretation of myopotentials, and electromagnetic interference. As the number of implanted ICDs has increased, other contributors to inappropriate therapy have become known, such as minimal electrical current leaks that mimic ventricular fibrillation. We present the case of a 63-year-old man with a biventricular ICD who received 2 inappropriate shocks, probably attributable to alternating-current leaks in a swimming pool. In addition, we discuss ICD sensitivity and offer recommendations to avoid similar occurrences.

Volume Number

41

Issue Number

1

Pages

61-63

Document Type

Article

EPub Date

2014/02/12

Status

Faculty, Northwell Researcher

Facility

School of Medicine; Northwell Health

Primary Department

Cardiology

PMID

24512403


Included in

Cardiology Commons

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