title: Recent advances in the entirely subcutaneous ICD System.
abstract: The entirely subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD(®)) is emerging as a widely accepted therapeutic alternative to a conventional implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) for prevention of sudden cardiac death. Essentially, the S-ICD(®) is promising in terms of reduction of electrode-related complications such as lead failure and infections. The conventional transvenous ICD has proven efficacy in various randomized clinical trials. The first results of S-ICD(®) studies confirm efficacy and safety in primary and secondary prevention as well. Owing to basic differences between S-ICD(®) and transvenous ICD-such as limited programming options and lack of pacing-not all patients are eligible for the S-ICD(®). Concerns exist regarding inappropriate shocks due to T-wave oversensing, dimensions of the device, and shorter battery longevity. However, the S-ICD(®) should be considered a useful supplementation of ICD therapy in those patients at risk for sudden cardiac death who are not expected to require pacing due to bradycardia or antitachycardic pacing.
authors.affiliation: Division of Clinical and Experimental Electrophysiology, Department of Cardiology and Angiology University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster Germany.
authors.forename: Markus
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Bettin
authors.affiliation: Division of Clinical and Experimental Electrophysiology, Department of Cardiology and Angiology University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster Germany.
authors.forename: Florian
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Reinke
authors.affiliation: Division of Clinical and Experimental Electrophysiology, Department of Cardiology and Angiology University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster Germany.
authors.forename: Benjamin
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Rath
authors.affiliation: Division of Clinical and Experimental Electrophysiology, Department of Cardiology and Angiology University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster Germany.
authors.forename: Julia
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Köbe
authors.affiliation: Division of Clinical and Experimental Electrophysiology, Department of Cardiology and Angiology University Hospital Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, Gebäude A1, 48149 Münster Germany.
authors.forename: Lars
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Eckardt