1st January 2006
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)
Summary,

Source: National Guidelines Clearinghouse

GUIDELINE OBJECTIVE(S)

• To review the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) for arrhythmias
• To update a previous technology assessment review

TARGET POPULATION

• Patients at risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD), including those who have:
  • Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of less than 30% and a QRS duration of equal to or more than 120 milliseconds
  • Undergone surgical repair for congenital heart conditions
• Patients who have survived sudden cardiac events
• Patients with recurrent unstable heart rhythms

INTERVENTIONS AND PRACTICES CONSIDERED

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs)

MAJOR OUTCOMES CONSIDERED

• Clinical effectiveness
  • Mortality rates (all cause mortality, arrhythmic death, and nonarrhythmic death)
  • Quality of life
  • Adverse effects of treatment
• Cost effectiveness