Implanting defibrillators in young people with genetic heart disorders but no history of sudden cardiac arrest is a good investment, according to a recently published study.

ICDs are designed to recognize and terminate life-threatening arrhythmias by shocking the heart's electrical system. Defibrillator therapy in young at-risk patients reduces the risk of sudden cardiac death and can significantly prolong life, say researchers.

"In the present study, we employ an analytical model based on current knowledge of the risks of patients with genetic cardiac disorders," states Dr. Ilan Goldenberg of the Heart Research Follow-Up Program at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

"In this high-risk population, intervention with a defibrillator at the age of ten years is cost-effective or even associated with economic gains due to the societal contributions of young and otherwise healthy patients in whom defibrillator therapy extends life."