The Automatic Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator in Drug-Refractory Ventricular Tachyarrhythmias

Abstract

The defibrillator is highly effective in preventing sudden death in patients whose presenting arrhythmias caused loss of consciousness (group A). In patients whose presenting arrhythmias did not result in loss of consciousness (group C), initial treatment with the defibrillator appears unnecessary.