Implantable Cardioverter–Defibrillators in Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy

This interactive feature on treatment for nonischemic cardiomyopathy in patients who are receiving medical therapy offers a case vignette accompanied by essays that support either implantation of an ICD or no implantation. Share your comments and vote at NEJM.org. Case Vignette A Man with Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy Who Is Considering an ICD Rebecca E. Berger, M.D. Mr. Gregory is a 68-year-old man with nonischemic cardiomyopathy who has come to your office to discuss possible placement of an implantable cardioverter–defibrillator (ICD). Six months ago, he was admitted to the hospital with progressive exercise intolerance and new onset of edema in his legs. He has a history of heavy alcohol use but has been abstinent for the past 5 years. During his hospital stay, an echocardiogram showed an ejection fraction of 30%; cardiac catheterization revealed no clinically significant coronary artery disease. He . . .