Bänsch D, Brunn J, Castrucci M, Weber M, Gietzen F, Borggrefe M, Breithardt G, Block M. Syncope in patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator: incidence, prediction and implications for driving restrictions.
J Am Coll Cardiol 1998;
31:608-15. [PMID:
9502643 DOI:
10.1016/s0735-1097(97)00543-3]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
This retrospective study was undertaken to provide information on occurrence, risk prediction and prevention of syncope in patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).
BACKGROUND
ICDs effectively terminate ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation (VT/VF). Incapacitating symptoms, such as syncope, may still occur.
METHODS
We performed a retrospective analysis of data from 421 patients (clinical history, outpatient chart reviews and episode data) with mean (+/-SD) follow-up of 26 +/- 18 months.
RESULTS
Of 421 patients, 229 (54.4%) had recurrent VT/VF, and 62 (14.7%) had syncope. The actuarial survival rate free of VT/VF was 58%, 45% and 37% and that for survival free of syncope was 90%, 85% and 81% at 12, 24 and 36 months after implantation, respectively. Once VT/VF had occurred, 76%, 68% and 62% of patients remained free of syncope during the following 12, 24 and 36 months, and 68%, 64% and 56% remained free of second syncope 12, 24 and 36 months after first syncope, respectively. In cases of syncope, the mean cycle length (CL) of VT was 251 +/- 56 ms. A low baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), induction of fast VT (CL <300 ms) during programmed ventricular stimulation and chronic atrial fibrillation (AF) were associated with an increased risk of syncope. If the LVEF was >40%, fast VT had not been induced, and patients had no chronic AF; 96%, 92% and 92% of patients remained free of syncope after 12, 24 and 36 months, respectively. Once patients had a VT recurrence, syncope during the first VT and a high VT rate were the strongest risk predictors of future syncope.
CONCLUSIONS
Identification of patients with an ICD with a low and high risk of syncope seems to be feasible and might help as a guide to driving restrictions in such patients.
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