Sport Activity in Subjects with Implantable Defibrillator

The importance of physical activity is worldwide known, not only for healthy subjects but also for patients with heart disease. In particular, an accurate balance between risks and benefits of physical activity is necessary for patients with implantable defibrillator (ICD). The guidelines do not offer strict indications regarding the indications and limitations in sports for ICD patients, but it is of pivotal importance to guarantee their safety: an adequate preimplantation assessment also with device selection and tailored programming can avoid potential adverse events (like inappropriate shocks, lead fracture or dislocation, undersensing of ventricular arrhythmias). The use of improving technology, caution, common sense, and open discussion with single patients can help physicians to make the best decisions.