Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators: expanding indications.
OBJECTIVE
This article reviews multiple secondary and primary prevention trials that have expanded the indications for implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs).


RESULTS
Most studies performed over the last several years have concentrated on the role of ICDs in high-risk patients for the primary prevention of sudden death. Several recent trials that have been completed but not published are also reviewed.


CONCLUSIONS
Data from recently completed trials and evolving ICD technology, such as ICDs with cardiac resynchronization capabilities, will alter indications for ICDs in the near future.
Naccarelli
Gerald V
GV
Division of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Center, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033, USA. gnaccarelli@psu.edu
D016757:Death, Sudden, Cardiac / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017147:Defibrillators, Implantable; D006801:Humans; D011322:Primary Prevention; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D016896:Treatment Outcome