Electrical devices for the treatment of tachyarrhythmias.

Pacing techniques may be useful in both prevention and termination of tachycardias. In this article, current techniques and hardware are reviewed and evaluated. Mechanisms for termination and acceleration are outlined. Evaluation of candidates for implantable devices, both pacers and defibrillators, is provided, together with the long-term results and the likely future role of such devices.