Cognitive functioning in implantable cardioverter defibrillator/pacemaker recipients

Abstract

Cognitive impairment (CI) is one of the most common recurring chronic conditions among elderly people. Congestive heart failure (CHF) is recognised as an important cause of CI, not only in the elderly but also in younger people. Cardiac devices such as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and pacemaker (PM) are frequently used in HF patients and might modify cognitive functioning in different ways. This chapter describes how cardiac devices could influence cognitive functioning in HF patients and how CI could impact the management of heart failure.