Abstract

Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs), such as ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, can negatively impact a patient’s quality of life and maybe potentially fatal. Implanting a cardiac defibrillator is the gold standard for preventing sudden cardiac death. The current review aims to investigate the causes and management strategies for VAs in Saudi Arabia. A total of 299 pertinent publications were found after a com prehensive search across four databases. After eliminating duplicates using Rayyan QCRI and checking for relevance, 34 full-text publications were examined; four studies ultimately satisfied the inclusion criteria. We included four studies with a total of 16,092 participants, the majority of whom were males (12,311; 76.5%). Common risk factors included male gender, older age, smoking history, and comorbidities, such as peripheral artery disease, congestive heart failure, and a history of stroke or myocardial infarction. Other clinical factors associated with VA included lower systolic blood pressure, positive cardiac markers, and a family history of cardiomyopathy. Management strategies target evidence-based treatments that significantly reduce mortality and the incidence of VA, including ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, statins, anticoagulants, and revascularization. Additionally, implantable devices are used in heart failure patients but show similar utilization rates among those with and without VA. Key areas for intervention include the modification of risk factors, management of comorbid conditions, and addressing disparities in treatment. Further studies are needed to better understand genetic influences and the effects of long-term use of targeted therapies. Improved public health initiatives and clinical practices hold the key to reducing the burden of VA and improving cardiac care in the region.

Key words: Ventricular arrhythmias, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, Saudi Arabia, systematic review