Driving and arrhythmia: a review of scientific basis for international guidelines

Eur Heart J. 2013 Jan;34(3):236-44. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehs356. Epub 2012 Oct 19.

Abstract

In patients with arrhythmias, the most feared complication while driving is of driver incapacity resulting in a road traffic accident. Patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) may suffer incapacity as a result of device therapy itself. The aim of this review article was to examine the types of arrhythmia that occur while driving, the impact of arrhythmia on driving as well as evidence to support that driving itself can precipitate arrhythmias. We will also review the postulated mechanisms by which driving can precipitate arrhythmias. Finally, we will compare guidelines from the USA, Europe, and UK in fitness to drive in patients with arrhythmias and ICDs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Traffic / statistics & numerical data
  • Air Pollutants / toxicity
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / etiology*
  • Automobile Driving / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Automobile Driving / statistics & numerical data
  • Defibrillators, Implantable / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic*
  • Risk Factors
  • Stress, Psychological / etiology
  • Vehicle Emissions / toxicity

Substances

  • Air Pollutants
  • Vehicle Emissions