Applications

1374 – Insertion of subcutaneous electrode for the purpose of use with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)

Find out about the service or technology in this application and the medical condition it addresses. You can also view the application documents, the deadlines for providing consultation input and the outcome of the application when the MSAC process is complete.

  • Status Complete
  • Type New application
  • Pre-PASC consultation -
  • Pre-MSAC consultation -
  • Outcome Not supported

Application details

Reason for application

New MBS item.

Service or technology in this application

The subcutaneous ICD comprises of an electrode and pulse generator. In contrast to traditional ICDs, this ICD is entirely subcutaneous. Accordingly, the system does not require an electrode to be placed either on (epicardially) or in (endocardially) the heart and no leads are passed through the venous system. The implant procedure for the subcutaneous ICD involves making a pocket for the pulse generator in the lateral thoracic region. Using a tunnelling tool, the electrode is then placed in a subcutaneous sinus along the sternum. Using anatomical landmarks only, there is no need for fluoroscopy or other medical imaging during the surgical implant procedure. The electrode is connected to the pulse generator and the system then monitors cardiac rhythms, delivers defibrillation and/or post-shock bradycardia pacing therapies as required, and records ventricular tachyarrhythmia events for subsequent clinician review.

Type: Therapeutic

Medical condition this application addresses

The subcutaneous ICD is intended to provide defibrillation therapy for the treatment of life threatening ventricular tachyarrhythmias in patients who do not have symptomatic bradycardia, incessant ventricular tachycardia, or spontaneous, frequently recurring ventricular tachycardia that is reliably terminated with anti-tachycardia pacing

Meetings to consider this application

  • PASC meeting: 12 -13 December 2013
  • ESC meeting: 8 - 10 October 2014
  • MSAC meeting: 26 - 28 November 2014