Role of implantable cardioverter defibrillators in non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy.
Patients with non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NICM) are at significant risk of sudden cardiac death. Multiple randomised trials have shown that implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) reduce mortality in high-risk patients with NICM. However, despite this, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence specifically excluded patients with NICM from its updated guidance concerning ICD use. This lack of guidance poses clear problems for both clinicians managing patients with NICM and those who commission healthcare services. This review aims to help guide clinicians in this difficult, high-cost and high-risk area.
Wessex Cardiothoracic Unit, Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust, Southampton, UK.
Paul A
PA
Scott
Paul R
PR
Roberts
D002311:Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / Q000191:economics / Q000628:therapy*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D016757:Death, Sudden, Cardiac / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017147:Defibrillators, Implantable / Q000191:economics; D006801:Humans; D018579:Patient Selection; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D018570:Risk Assessment