In what situation is SCD prevention via WCD considered reasonable?

The consideration of wearable cardioverter defibrillators (WCD) for patients focuses on identifying those at a higher risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD) who are not candidates for implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD). WCDs are beneficial for patients who may be experiencing transient risk factors or are in a state of heart failure that disqualifies them from receiving an ICD at that moment.

High-risk patients often include those with recent myocardial infarction, significant left ventricular dysfunction, or a history of life-threatening arrhythmias, yet who might not currently meet the criteria or are waiting for other treatments to stabilize their condition. Utilizing the WCD in these instances serves as an interim protective measure against arrhythmias that could lead to SCD.

The other scenarios listed do not capture the specific use cases that highlight the need for WCDs primarily directed at those at significant risk without viable options for permanent devices or interventions. This clarifies why narrow criteria regarding eligibility enhance patient safety and ensure appropriate management of their heart failure conditions.