Does a normal EKG preclude SCD?
No, a plain resting EKG that is reported as normal does not eliminate the possibility of Sudden Cardiac Death, especially among patients with coronary artery disease, whether previously diagnosed or still undetected. This is the reason why a Stress EKG, preferably with Thallium, or Stress Echocardiography, are recommended to find out how the heart would behave under stress. These are more accurate and significant tests compared to a simple resting EKG. A plain EKG is only helpful if it shows abnormal findings. If it is “normal,” it does not have an accurate diagnostic value, and thus, cannot be depended upon for prognostication. Can a Pacemaker prevent SCD? Not really, if the coronary artery disease that is causing the problem is not treated. The Pacemaker only stimulates the heart muscles to beat, with small electrical jolts that the person does not even feel. If the heart muscles are not getting enough blood because the coronary arteries are blocked, these muscles will not beat well
