Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator use and benefit in women.

Women currently receive far fewer implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) than do men. Some studies suggest bias in device utilization, with fewer women receiving ICDs despite a similar clinical profile. Other studies, however, describe differences in clinical presentation and arrhythmia risk. There may be autonomic and electrophysiological factors that suggest a lower susceptibility to arrhythmia in women. Although the data on the benefits of the ICD in women are limited by the low numbers of women enrolled in the landmark studies, most studies do suggest an efficacy in women similar to that in men. Further research is needed on the use of ICDs in women.