Comparison of health-related Quality of Life between patients with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators and pacemaker recipients

Abstract

Both Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD) and pacemakers are life-saving cardiac devices, however they may have a negative impact on Quality of Life (QoL). The implantation of an ICD may increase the risk of depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. A few studies examining the devices used to regulate the heart rate report that sudden, but also lifelong mental disorders occur much more frequently in patients with ICDs than those with PM. Compared to healthy population, they experience more anxious states. As for depression, a slight prevalence can be seen in ICD patients as compared to PM patients and healthy population. After the implantation of the pacemaker, the patients' quality of life changes. Before implementation, patients fear a sudden heart failure or loss of conscience the most. After implantation, the stress related to fear of reduced self-sufficiency gradually disappears. If the patient is prepared for the operation in time and educated, as well as rehabilitated after the operation, anxiety and depression disappear as well. With increasing time elapsing from the operation, the problems decrease.