Risk factors for non-benefit of implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy

Studies have demonstrated overall prognostic benefits of ICD implantation in patients at increased risk of sudden cardiac death. However, results are inconsistent in certain subgroups. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic implications of comorbidities on ICD outcomes and compare trends in patient selection and outcomes over a decade-long inclusion period. This study analysed 422 patients undergoing ICD implantation between 2011 and 2020. The study endpoint “no-benefit” was characterized by death from any cause occurring without prior appropriate ICD therapy. Benefit of ICD implantation was defined as either receiving appropriate ICD therapy before death or surviving until the end of the observation period. During a mean follow-up of 4.2 ± 3.0 years, no-benefit of ICD implantation was observed in 84 patients (20%). Independent risk factors for no-benefit were age ≥ 68 years (HR 4.599, p