Current status of wearable cardioverter-defibrillator use in Japan

BackgroundThe current status of wearable cardiovascular defibrillators (WCD) use in Japan is unclear.MethodsUsing a nationwide claims database of Japan, we assessed characteristics of patients using WCD and factors influencing subsequent implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation.ResultsIn 1049 cases, those with prior cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) or ventricular arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, or device-related issues were more likely to require permanent ICDs, whereas females were less likely.ConclusionsPrior CPA or fatal arrhythmia, underlying cardiomyopathy, or device-related issues were associated with future permanent ICD implantation. These findings offer insights into the current status of WCD use in Japan. Using a nationwide claims database of Japan, we assessed characteristics of patients using wearable cardiovascular defibrillators and factors influencing subsequent implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation. In 1049 cases, those with prior cardiopulmonary arrest or ventricular arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, or device-related issues were more likely to require permanent ICDs, whereas females were less likely.image