Implantable Defibrillators : Test detects need for implantable defibrillators

BOSTON - A test that picks up a nearly undetectable variation in the heartbeat helps single out heart attack survivors who are likely to develop potentially deadly heart rhythms, reports the June issue of the Harvard Heart Letter. These are the people who would most benefit from getting a device called an implantable defibrillator, which shocks the heart back into a normal rhythm if it goes astray.

What is a defibrillator?

Defibrillators help some heart attack survivors who have damage to the left ventricle live longer. The problem is that doctors can’t easily tell which survivors are most likely to suddenly develop lethal heart rhythms - and so would benefit from a defibrillator - and which aren’t. The new test, called the T wave alternans test, may fill that need. Originally designed for the space program, the test detects beat-to-beat changes in the heartbeat that are too small to be seen on a standard electrocardiogram (EKG).

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss...from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

BONUS! Sign up now and
get a FREE copy of the
Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.