Psychological problems of patients after implantation of a cardioverter-defibrillator

Abstract

The implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD) have become the method of choice for the prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) since its approval by the Food and Drug Administration in 1985. Studies have shown that the use of ICD significantly increases the effectiveness of preventing SCD and reduces side effects compared with pharmacotherapy. In connection with the extension of the indications for implantation ICD in primary prevention by the European Society of Cardiology in 2001, significantly increased the number of people with this device. The lives of patients with ICD are changing and many people (up to 87%) feel the anxiety associated with the working of the device. Studies have shown that predisposing factors for mental disorders occurring after implantation of the ICD are: patients younger than 50 years, female sex, lack of social and family support and numerous discharge devices. Patients should be aware of the working of ICD and participate in the therapies and support groups to help them control negative emotions, i.e. fear, anxiety and stress associated with the implanted device. Keep in mind that full therapeutic success after ICD implantation also depends on the patient’s psychological well-being.