PhD defence R. (Rafi) Sakhi

Prolonged rhythm monitoring using a subcutaneous insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) has proven to be of incremental diagnostic value for a wide spectrum of indications, especially in patients with recurrent  unexplained syncope. The aim of the present thesis (Part I) was to investigate the clinical value of ICMs as part of risk stratification in different patients with inherited and/or structural heart disease who are susceptible to sudden cardiac death (SCD) but who do not have a clear indication for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) for primary prevention. Furthermore, given the fact that the majority of patients with inherited and/or structural heart disease are young and do not require bradycardia pacing or resynchronization therapy, we wanted to investigate their suitability for a completely subcutaneous ICD system (Part II). In conclusion, an ICM can be a useful diagnostic tool in symptomatic patients with structural heart disease or inheritable arrhythmia syndrome who are at low to moderate risk of SCD when comprehensive evaluation has not led to a specific treatment. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the majority of ICD-candidates for primary prevention are eligible for a S-ICD and that the eligibility for a S-ICD can also be predicted by a standard 12-lead ECG.

Due to corona, the PhD defences do not take place publicly in the usual way in the Senate Hall of the Professor Andries Querido Room. The candidates will defend their dissertation either in a small group or online.