Mortality Trials Combining the ICD and Resynchronization Therapy: Where Do We Stand?

摘要

The completed studies of combined biventricular resynchronization-defibrillator (CRT-D) therapy, the VENTAK CHF/CONTAK CD1 and InSync ICD2 studies, were designed to evaluate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator candidates who have symptomatic heart failure. The study analyses and the observed changes in clinical status in the two studies differed. The Ventak CHF/Contack CD study analyzed a subgroup of NYHA III and IV heart failure patients whose HF status stabilized after enrollment, CRT-D implantation, and drug adjustment. Results were reported using means and standard deviations. The InSync ICD study studied prospectively NYHA III and IV patients whose drug therapy was stable at the time of enrollment. Results were reported using medians, 25fc and 75 percent quartiles.