Risk score-based assessment for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

HCM: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; ICD: implantable cardioverter-defibrillator; LV: left ventricular; NSVT: nonsustained ventricular tachycardia; SCD: sudden cardiac death; VF: ventricular fibrillation; VT: ventricular tachycardia.

* The strength of association between these factors and SCD or VT/VF varies, but the presence of a single factor confers a high risk status. Refer to topics on ventricular arrhythmias in HCM for more details.

¶ ICD placement for primary prevention requires communication of the benefits and risks of long-term ICD therapy with the patient and an understanding of the patient's goals and preferences. The risks of therapy include inappropriate shocks, device exchanges, and complications with ICD components (eg, leads, generators), while the main benefit is a reduction in the risk of SCD.