Electrical storm after CRT implantation treated by AV delay optimization

J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol. 2010 Feb;21(2):211-3. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8167.2009.01548.x. Epub 2009 Jul 13.

Abstract

We present a case of symptomatic ischemic heart failure with an indication for cardiac resynchronization and implantable cardiac defibrillator therapy in primary prevention. After implantation, the patient developed a severe electrical storm with multiple shocks. Hemodynamic improvement based only on AV delay, guided by echocardiography and ECG, brought about a dramatic improvement in the situation. We discuss the pathophysiology of electrical storm occurring immediately after LV pacing.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cardiac Pacing, Artificial / adverse effects*
  • Electric Injuries / diagnosis
  • Electric Injuries / etiology*
  • Electric Injuries / prevention & control*
  • Heart Failure / diagnosis
  • Heart Failure / etiology*
  • Heart Failure / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pacemaker, Artificial / adverse effects*
  • Treatment Outcome