Abstract
Objective: Sudden cardiac death (SCD) remains a leading cause of cardiovascular mortality, often originating from malignant ventricular arrhythmias. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) have been proven effective in both primary and secondary prevention of SCD. However, real-world data on ICD implantation in Vietnam, particularly in Hue City, remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the clinical characteristics, indications, and early outcomes of ICD therapy at Hue Central Hospital.
Subjects and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 43 patients who received ICD implants at Hue Central Hospital from April 2022 to April 2025, to assess clinical characteristics, indications, and early outcomes.
Results: The average age was 51.0 ± 16.0 years; males accounted for the majority (90.7%), commonly presenting with Brugada syndrome, idiopathic VT, or dilated cardiomyopathy. Female patients were more often diagnosed with long QT syndrome or ARVC. About 32.6% of patients had an EF <35%; the majority of ICD indications were for secondary prevention (95.3%). Genetic mutations (KCNQ1, KCNH2, DES) were identified in three patients. The modified MADIT-ICD therapy score ranged from 3 to 11 points; the mean was 6.74 ± 1.90, and the median was 7 points. Eight patients (18.6%) received appropriate shocks; one patient died due to progressive heart failure.
Conclusion: ICD therapy has proven effective in preventing recurrent arrhythmic events, particularly in young patients with ion channelopathies. Integration of genetic testing, ECG monitoring, electrophysiological studies, and imaging techniques such as echocardiography and cardiac MRI plays an essential role in risk stratification and individualizing ICD indications in Vietnam.