Title:Ventricular Arrhythmias in Seniors with Heart Failure: Present Dilemmas
and Therapeutic Considerations: A Systematic Review
Volume: 18
Issue: 2
Author(s): Tuoyo O Mene-Afejuku*, Abayomi O Bamgboje, Modele O Ogunniyi, Ola Akinboboye and Uzoma N Ibebuogu
Affiliation:
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, 1025 Marsh St, Mankato, MN 56001, USA
- Epidemiology,
Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Keywords:
Device therapy, heart failure, mortality, outcomes, seniors, ventricular arrhythmias.
Abstract:
Background: Heart Failure (HF) is a global public health problem, which affects over
23 million people worldwide. The prevalence of HF is higher among seniors in the USA and other
developed countries. Ventricular Arrhythmias (VAs) account for 50% of deaths among patients
with HF. We aim to elucidate the factors associated with VAs among seniors with HF, as well as
therapies that may improve the outcomes.
Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library databases, Science Direct, and Google
Scholar were searched using specific keywords. The reference lists of relevant articles were
searched for additional studies related to HF and VAs among seniors as well as associated outcomes.
Results: The prevalence of VAs increases with worsening HF. A 24-hour Holter electrocardiogram
may be useful in risk stratifying patients for device therapy if they do not meet the criterion of low
ventricular ejection fraction. Implantable Cardiac Defibrillators (ICDs) are superior to anti-arrhythmic
drugs in reducing mortality in patients with HF. Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy (GDMT)
together with device therapy may be required to reduce symptoms. In general, the proportion of seniors
on GDMT is low. A combination of ICDs and cardiac resynchronization therapy may improve
outcomes in selected patients.
Conclusion: Seniors with HF and VAs have high mortality even with the use of device therapy
and GDMT. The holistic effect of device therapy on outcomes among seniors with HF is equivocal.
More studies focused on seniors with advanced HF as well as therapeutic options are, therefore,
required.