Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are designed to keep track of your
heart rate and stop fast heart rhythms that may become life-threatening. These life-threatening
heart rhythms are called ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation
(VF). Primary prevention refers to ICDs in individuals who are at risk for, but have
not yet had an episode of continued VT or VF.
ICDs have special capabilities that are referred to as programming within the device
(like a computer) that allow the device to have specific settings for different features
the device can offer. ICD devices allow the heart to return to a stable, regular heart
rhythm by applying an electrical shock to the heart. Shocks can stop both VT and VF
and may be considered lifesaving. However, shocks can cause discomfort. They may also
occur when unnecessary, which is known as “inappropriate “shock therapy.
Dr. Adam Budzikowski, Assistant Professor of Medicine, will be participating in a
multi-center study to evaluate the value of Antitachycardia Pacing (ATP) in primary
prevention patients who receive ICDs. The ultimate goal of this study is to critically
assess how certain programming of ICDs may reduce the number of shocks received and
improve survival rate.
Additional information regarding this study can be found on the NIH Clinical Trials website.
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