[The "Recommendations for the structure of cardiac pacemaker and defibrillator therapy"--what can they achieve?: Implementation of the concept paper for HSM/ICD therapy].

Implantable devices in cardiac electrophysiology have developed from simple machines that prevent bradycardia to complex systems that treat malignant tachyarrhythmias and severe heart failure. Optimal therapeutic utilization of these systems requires profound knowledge of those who treat patients with devices. To account for that, the German Cardiac Society has published "Recommendations for the structure of cardiac pacemaker and defibrillator therapy" to achieve an expertise in 2 levels. These define topics for interdisciplinary education to ensure implantation and follow-up of high quality, as well as infrastructural requirements such as staff and operation rooms. The implementation of these guidelines offers a great opportunity for good quality in device therapy and may enhance the results of the compulsory German quality registry of the respective institution. The established courses of the German Cardiac Society to achieve competence in pacemaker and ICD therapy according to the curricula should be complemented by practical training in accredited centers. Minimum numbers for implantation and follow-up are necessary to ensure a continuously high quality.