S-ICDs: advantages and opportunities for improvement

Introduction The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) is currently in its third generation and has been adopted in guidelines and in mainstream clinical practice. Considerable improvements have been made since the introduction of this device over a decade ago. Areas covered A literature search was undertaken in Pubmed on articles relating to the S-ICD. Expert opinion The therapy has been proven to be safe and effective and is a valuable option in selected patients. Nevertheless, there remain many shortcomings of the S-ICD which are discussed in this review, and which hopefully will be addressed by future generations of the device.

Automated summary

The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) is a safe and effective therapy that is valuable in selected patients. However, there are still several shortcomings of the device that need to be addressed in future generations.