Sudden cardiac arrest; with a particular focus on idiopathic ventricular fibrillation
Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation, Sudden cardiac arrest
Research aim
Our research focuses on discovering causes of sudden cardiac arrest, specifically idiopathic ventricular fibrillation. By investigating unexplained cases, we aim to understand potential causes and ultimately reduce sudden cardiac death risk.
About us
The research group investigates sudden cardiac arrest, a life-threatening event that in unwitnessed cases almost always leads to death. Central to our work is the Dutch Idiopathic VF Registry, one of the world’s largest databases including idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (VF) patients. In these patients, the cause for their arrest remained unclear after an extensive diagnostic work-up. By analyzing cases in this registry, we aim to uncover mechanisms and risk factors and investigate new advanced techniques to explain these unexplained events.
Our research is multi-disciplinary, involving collaborations with radiologist and genetical counselors. We work together with many national and international collaborators with the ultimate goal to improve detection, prevention, and treatment strategies for these patients.
Publications:
For a detailed description of Idiopathic VF, the review by Visser et al (https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCEP.115.003817) can be consulted;
The Dutch Idiopathic VF registry is described in detail in this study by Verheul et al (https://doi.org/10.1007/s12471-024-01870-y);
The importance of performing a complete diagnostic work-up is highlighted in this study by Groeneveld et al (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacep.2022.10.003).