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01-09-2019 | ß-Blockers | Invasive Electrophysiology and Pacing (EK Heist, Section Editor)

Electrical Storm: Current Evidence, Clinical Implications, and Future Perspectives

Authors: Christos Kontogiannis, Konstantinos Tampakis, Georgios Georgiopoulos, Stefano Bartoletti, Christos Papageorgiou, Hector Anninos, Alkistis Kapelouzou, Michael Spartalis, Ioannis Paraskevaidis, Sofia Chatzidou

Published in: Current Cardiology Reports | Issue 9/2019

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Electrical storm (ES) is a life-threatening medical emergency of repetitive episodes of sustained ventricular arrhythmias within a short period. Its occurrence is associated with poor short- and long-term survival, even in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD). Management of ES is challenging and mainly based on retrospective studies. This article reviews the existing literature on ES, presents the available data regarding its management, and proposes a new algorithm based on current evidence.

Recent Findings

Recent research could modify the management of ES supporting the role of non-selective β1 and β2 blockade and the early intervention with catheter ablation as well as strengthening the role of cardiac sympathetic denervation.

Summary

A multipronged approach should be considered for the management of ES including identification and correction of reversible causes, ICD reprogramming, drug therapy (beta-blockers—especially non-selective ones—and other anti-arrhythmic drugs) and non-pharmacologic therapies such as catheter ablation and techniques of neuroaxial modulation. Although current data suggest early aggressive management, further research is required to clarify the optimal order and combination of therapies for the prevention of future events.

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Title: Electrical Storm: Current Evidence, Clinical Implications, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Christos Kontogiannis
Konstantinos Tampakis
Georgios Georgiopoulos
Stefano Bartoletti
Christos Papageorgiou
Hector Anninos
Alkistis Kapelouzou
Michael Spartalis
Ioannis Paraskevaidis
Sofia Chatzidou
Publication date: 01-09-2019
Publisher: Springer US
Keywords: ß-Blockers
Shock
Shock
Ventricular Tachycardia
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Published in: Current Cardiology Reports / Issue 9/2019
Print ISSN: 1523-3782
Electronic ISSN: 1534-3170
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-019-1190-0

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Electrical Storm: Current Evidence, Clinical Implications, and Future Perspectives

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Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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