SUBJCETS AND METHODS: We evaluated 12 patients (M:F=11:1) who underwent ICD implantation between October 20, 1999, and August 30, 2003. Clinical characteristics and adverse events were monitored and recorded from the in-hospital period to the follow-up period. Only one patient received dual chamber ICD.

RESULTS: The mean age of the patients at implantation was 56±13 years. The average duration of follow-up was 17.9±10.9 months. During the initial perioperative period, there were 8 events in 5 patients:ventricular lead dislodgement (n=1), electrical storm (n=1), difficulty in inserting ICD lead (n=1), appropriate shock (n=1), high DFT (Defibrillation Threshold, n=2), and hematoma (n=2). During the follow-up period, there were 6 events in 5 patients: atrial lead dislodgement (n=1), exchange of generator (n=1), upgrade to ICD with biventricular pacing (n=1), electrical storm with inappropriate shock (n=1), electric storm with appropriate shock (n=1), and appropriate shock without electric storm (n=1).

CONCLUSION: We found that the clinical courses and outcomes were complex and varied from the perioperative period to the follow-up period. Thus, the therapeutic modality should be adjusted to individual and specific clinical circumstances.