Variations in clinical decision-making on the management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a survey study targeting cardiologists in Korea
10.18501/ija.2025.26.e8
- Author:
Jinsun PARK
;
Il-Young OH
;
Sang-Jin HAN
;
Hwan-Cheol PARK
;
Youngjin CHO
;
Jin WI
;
Kwang-Jin CHUN
;
Jinhee AHN
;
Do-Young KIM
;
Hye Bin GWAG
;
Seung-Yong SHIN
;
Dong-Jin OH
;
Yongkeun CHO
;
Myung-Jin CHA
- Publication Type:Research
- From:International Journal of Arrhythmia
2025;26(1):e8-
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background and Objectives:Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) increases the risk of sudden cardiac death. Despite international guidelines for sudden death prevention and implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) use, clinical practices vary. This study assessed the practices and opinions of Korean cardiologists on HCM management, focusing on ICD use and reimbursement policies.
Methods:A structured electronic survey was distributed to members of the Korean Society of Cardiology, covering HCM management, ICD preferences, and reimbursement policies.
Results:A total of 119 cardiologists participated, with most being arrhythmia specialists (56.3%) and university professors (81.5%). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and genetic testing were underutilized (30.3% and 11.8%, respectively). Beta-blocker-refractory premature ventricular complexes were primarily managed with continued medical therapy (77.3%). ICD preferences varied by physician specialty and patient age, with subcutaneous ICDs preferred in younger patients and dual-chamber ICDs in older patients. Nearly half of respondents believed ICD reimbursement criteria required revision.
Conclusions:Significant variability in HCM management exists among Korean cardiologists, influenced by restrictive reimbursement criteria rather than clinical guidelines. Updated reimbursement policies and improved access to advanced diagnostics are needed to align with international standards and optimize patient care.
