Heart Rhythm Society/Pediatric and Congenital Electrophysiology Society Clinical Competency Statement:
Training pathways for implantation of cardioverter-defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization therapy devices in pediatric and congenital heart patients

May 2008

As devices such as pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices become more advanced, these life-saving therapies are being used more frequently in pediatric and congenital heart patients. To ensure physicians are prepared to provide these patients optimal care, the Heart Rhythm Society and the Pediatric Congenital Electrophysiology Society (PACES) have released the first training guidelines (PDF, 108K), for physician knowledge and experience for treating this unique patient population.

This clinical document, developed in collaboration with the American College of Cardiology, details the training for ICD/CRT implants in patients who are either in the pediatric age range (0–18 years of age) with or without congenital heart disease, or adults with congenital heart disease. The health care team involved in the care of these patients should have knowledge and expertise about the implantation indications, implantation techniques, complications, programming and follow-up for these devices, as well as the non-technical issues relevant to children.

For more information, read the Heart Rhythm Society press release announcing the release of the Clinical Compentency Statement.