Comparison of mortality and arrhythmogenic morbidity between single chamber and dual chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillators. A randomized, prospective trial

Abstract

Background: Introduction of dual chamber (DDD) pacing in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD) has improved treatment of ICD recipients with a standard indication for dual chamber pacing. It remains controversial, whether DDD ICD are beneficial for patients with preserved sinus and atrioventricular nodal function as data from prospective randomized trials are limited. Mid- or long-term follow-up data are unavailable. This study for the first time provides data about the long-term outcome of ICD recipients randomly assigned to receiving a single (VVI) or dual chamber ICD in the absence of a standard indication for permanent pacing.