ODSSEY-SCD_Identification Of Markers to preDict the rISk of Sudden Cardiac Death in Moderated LVEF in ischEmic cardiomyopathY

Although advances in treatment and patient management have considerably improved post-infarction prognosis, the risk of sudden cardiac death remains a major concern. Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is defined as an unexpected death occurring within one hour of the onset of symptoms, often of arrhythmic origin. In patients who have survived a myocardial infarction, sudden death represents a persistent threat. This risk is often associated with complications such as left ventricular dysfunction, malignant ventricular arrhythmias, and structural alterations of the myocardium, all of which can favor the development of fatal cardiac events. Among the risk factors identified, reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, a history of ventricular arrhythmias and the presence of extensive scarring of the myocardium are particularly significant.

Assessing the risk of SCD in post-infarction patients is crucial to determining appropriate prevention strategies, such as implanting automatic implantable defibrillators (ICDs). Assessment tools are varied, but currently only left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) \< 35% is identified and validated. However, this risk stratification is unsatisfactory, particularly in view of SCD in patients with a history of myocardial infarction and a moderately impaired LVEF (between 35 and 50%). Although the initial treatment of myocardial infarction is essential for the patient's immediate survival, managing the risk of sudden death in the long term remains a major clinical challenge. A multiparametric approach is needed to optimize prognosis and prevent premature death in these patients.