ICD implantation and evidence-based patient selection.

摘要

The recent study by Dr Al-Khatib and colleagues on evidence-based implantation of ICDs used data from the NCDR ICD Registry.1 We are concerned about the accuracy of the data in this registry. In contrast to the rigorous data collection procedures used by research staff in clinical trials, the registry relies on busy clinicians, including nurses or technicians who may not be completely familiar with the subtleties of clinical care and decision making for patients with cardiovascular disease. This may directly affect reporting accuracy and completeness.