Sudden Cardiac Death in Acute Coronary Syndromes

Publication date: Available online 28 September 2017 Source:Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics Author(s): Nikolaos Dagres, Gerhard HindricksTeaser Sudden cardiac death in acute coronary syndromes mostly results from complex ventricular arrhythmias. Although the incidence has fallen with contemporary management, they still pose a threat for many patients. Treatment consists of immediate termination by electrical cardioversion and prompt coronary revascularization for relief of ischemia. Beta-blockers administered prophylactically have a protective effect. For recurrent episodes, pharmacologic treatment consists of beta-blockers and amiodarone, or, in nonresponsive patients, lidocaine. Other antiarrhythmic drugs play only a marginal role. Catheter ablation performed in qualified centers can be effective in recurrent episodes of ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation triggered by premature ventricular contractions.
Source: Cardiac Electrophysiology Clinics - Category: Cardiology Source Type: research