Clinical competency statement: Training pathways for implantation of cardioverter defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization devices

ICDs are complicated devices that provide life-saving therapy for patients with a documented history of ventricular arrhythmias or for prophylaxis against sudden cardiac death in patients with serious structural heart disease. CRT devices improve symptoms and quality of life in patients with heart failure. Both modalities require special expertise not only in the techniques of implantation, but also a core of knowledge in the indications for the devices as well as programming and proper follow-up. These guidelines are intended to provide a pathway for non-electrophysiologists already experienced in pacemaker implantations to obtain the skills and knowledge to implant ICD and CRT devices safely and to provide effective therapy to patients in follow-up.