Low inappropriate shock rates in patients with single- and dual/triple-chamber implantable cardioverter-defibrillators using a novel suite of detection algorithms: PainFree SST trial primary results.

Background: The benefits of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) have been well demonstrated in many clinical trials, and ICD shocks for ventricular tachyarrhythmias save lives. However, inappropriate and unnecessary shock delivery remains a significant clinical issue with considerable consequences for patients and the healthcare system.

Objective: The purpose of the PainFree SmartShock Technology (SST) study was to investigate new-generation ICDs to reduce inappropriate and unnecessary shocks through novel discrimination algorithms with modern programming strategies.