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