Update on Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillator: A Comprehensive Review of Literature

Abstract

Despite the advancements in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, sudden cardiac death (SCD) remains a leading cause of mortality and is accountable for approximately 15% of the total mortality in the USA. The prognosis after sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) varies significantly and depends largely on the underlying etiology and the rapidity and efficiency of resuscitation; however, the outcome remains poor for most of the patients. The main culprits for SCD are coronary heart disease (CHD) and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Patients with HFrEF and an ejection fraction (EF) of less than 35% are considered for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) placement if the EF does not improve. A wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD) commonly known as a life-vest is sometimes used as a bridging modality until an ICD is implanted. The indication and utility of WCD is still a controversial topic. The purpose of this article is to provide an up-to-date comprehensive review of literature for WCD utilization.