Initial treatment of presumed pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator malfunctions: algorithm and rationale

This paper addresses the challenge of managing presumed malfunctions of permanent pacemakers (PPMs) and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) in emergency settings, where access to specialized care is limited. The authors propose practical algorithm-based approaches for the initial treatment of these device malfunctions to ensure timely and effective emergency care until expert consultation can be obtained.