New Guidelines Issued for Implanted Heart Devices

(Page 2)

The new guidelines also note the importance of talking about the risks and benefits of implanted devices with the patient and family. "We've always tried to do that, and it is formally articulated in the guidelines," Epstein said.

The emphasis on considering implanted devices as one part of an overall strategy arises partly from the greatly expanded used of cardiac medications. For example, more than 80 percent of Americans with coronary disease now get beta blockers, he said.

"We emphasize that the global approach to patients saves lives," Epstein said.

More information

Learn more about heart devices from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.