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Glenn L. Stoller, MD

Arch Ophthalmol. 2006;124:123-125.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

INTRODUCTION

The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a device used to treat cardiac tachyarrhythmias, specifically ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF). The goal of ICD therapy is the prevention of VF- and VT-induced sudden cardiac death or syncope via the delivery of therapeutic defibrillating shocks. Implantable cardioverter defibrillators have replaced pharmacotherapy and are now considered the treatment of choice for patients at high risk for life-threatening arrhythmias.¹

The first ICD was implanted in 1980.² For several years, implantation was limited to patients with documented cardiac arrest due to VF and was available in few centers. However, in 1985 the device was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for human use, thus making it more accessible to the general population. The ICD has 2 components, the pulse generator and the cardiac leads or electrodes. The generator, which monitors the cardiac rhythm and generates the defibrillating . . . [Full Text of this Article]

ICDs AND OCULAR SURGERY

PREOPERATIVE AND INTRAOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

AUTHOR INFORMATION

Author Affiliations: Ophthalmic Consultants of Long Island, Rockville Centre, NY; Department of Ophthalmology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY.