Estimating the Risks and Benefits of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Generator Replacement: A Systematic Review.

Every 4-7 years an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) pulse generator must be replaced surgically. This procedure is not without risk. In some cases, the risk versus benefit ratio may be against replacement. We aimed to synthesize the evidence on risks, benefits, and costs related to ICD replacement.