Analysis of Temporal Trends and Variation in the Use of Defibrillation Testing in Contemporary Practice

Key Points Question What are contemporary trends, institutional variation, and patient and hospital characteristics associated with defibrillation testing among patients undergoing first-time implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation? Findings In this cross-sectional study of 499 211 patients undergoing implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation, there was a significant decline in the use of defibrillation testing, yet there was a marked increase in institutional variation. Meaning There is variability in the deadoption of defibrillation testing which is not based on patient characteristics and could reflect differences in individual or institutional practices.

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