Abstract:
Forty-nine patients scheduled for implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation completed
self-report psychological questionnaires prior to surgery and at 2, 4 and 6 months after surgery. The
most common psychological problem identified was anxiety, with clinically significant cases based on
the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) ranging between 26% and 34%. Clinically significant
depression ranged between 8% and 20%. Anxiety sensitivity was associated with high levels of anxiety,
depression and stress at baseline, but not at follow-up assessments. It is possible that within this
population anxiety sensitivity is associated with distress during high-threat situations, but the
relationship diminishes once the threat has passed. In addition, the reassurance provided by the ICD
may reduce negative perceptions of symptoms, promoting psychological adaptation.
