title: Inappropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator shocks attributed to alternating-current leak in a swimming pool.
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.
authors: Department of Cardiology, Division of Electrophysiology, North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System, New Hyde Park, New York 11040.
authors: John N
authors: JN
authors: Makaryus
authors: Julia
authors: J
authors: Angert-Gilman
authors: Mena
authors: M
authors: Yacoub
authors: Apoor
authors: A
authors: Patel
authors: Bruce
authors: B
authors: Goldner
mesh_terms: D017147:Defibrillators, Implantable / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004553:Electric Conductivity; D004554:Electric Countershock / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000295:instrumentation*; D022062:Electrophysiologic Techniques, Cardiac; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D011475:Prosthesis Failure; D013551:Swimming Pools