What is an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)?
An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) is a small medical device implanted under the skin to monitor and correct life-threatening heart rhythm disorders. It helps prevent sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) by delivering electrical shocks to restore a normal heartbeat.
Why is an ICD Needed?
It is recommended for:
✔️ Ventricular tachycardia (VT) – A dangerously fast heart rhythm that can lead to cardiac arrest.
✔️ Ventricular fibrillation (VF) – A chaotic, irregular heartbeat that prevents the heart from pumping blood properly.
✔️ History of cardiac arrest – In patients who have survived a previous sudden cardiac arrest.
✔️ High risk of life-threatening arrhythmias – In conditions like severe heart failure, post-heart attack, or genetic heart diseases (e.g., Long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome).
✔️ Ventricular tachycardia (VT) – A dangerously fast heart rhythm that can lead to cardiac arrest.
✔️ Ventricular fibrillation (VF) – A chaotic, irregular heartbeat that prevents the heart from pumping blood properly.
✔️ History of cardiac arrest – In patients who have survived a previous sudden cardiac arrest.
✔️ High risk of life-threatening arrhythmias – In conditions like severe heart failure, post-heart attack, or genetic heart diseases (e.g., Long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome).
How is an ICD Implanted?
• A small incision is made under the collarbone.
• Thin wires (leads) are inserted through a vein into the heart.
• The ICD device, connected to the leads, is placed under the skin.
• The device continuously monitors the heart and automatically delivers a shock if a dangerous rhythm is detected.
• The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, and most patients can go home within 2 day.
• Thin wires (leads) are inserted through a vein into the heart.
• The ICD device, connected to the leads, is placed under the skin.
• The device continuously monitors the heart and automatically delivers a shock if a dangerous rhythm is detected.
• The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, and most patients can go home within 2 day.
What Can an ICD Do?
📌 Detects dangerous arrhythmias – Continuously monitors the heart for life-threatening rhythms.
📌 Delivers life-saving shocks – Automatically restores a normal rhythm in case of cardiac arrest.
📌 Acts as a pacemaker –ICDs also function as pacemakers to prevent slow heart rates.
📌 Reduces sudden cardiac death risk – Provides protection for high-risk patients.
🔹 ICDs are highly effective in preventing sudden cardiac death. Regular check-ups are required to ensure proper function and battery life. Some advanced ICDs also allow remote monitoring.
📌 Delivers life-saving shocks – Automatically restores a normal rhythm in case of cardiac arrest.
📌 Acts as a pacemaker –ICDs also function as pacemakers to prevent slow heart rates.
📌 Reduces sudden cardiac death risk – Provides protection for high-risk patients.
🔹 ICDs are highly effective in preventing sudden cardiac death. Regular check-ups are required to ensure proper function and battery life. Some advanced ICDs also allow remote monitoring.
