Discussing deactivation of implantable cardiac defibrillators. (2nd August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bahl, Rahul; Dubrey, Simon
• Is Part Of: British journal of hospital medicine. Volume 81:Number 8(2020)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 5
• Publication Date: 2020-08-02
• Subjects: Arrhythmia -- Ethics -- Implantable cardiac defibrillators -- Pacemaker -- Sudden death; Medicine -- Periodicals; Hospital care -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.12968/hmed.2020.0343
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1750-8460

Abstract

Abstract : Implantable cardiac defibrillators are a key component in preventing sudden cardiac death for patients with life-threatening arrhythmias. Through ageing, frailty and the progression of cardiac and non-cardiac morbidity, many will develop a 'life-limiting' condition. This raises the challenge of how to approach making decisions to deactivate the defibrillator function. This article discusses the background to deactivation of implantable cardioverter defibrillators and the practical considerations for different circumstances.