What is an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)?

What is an Implantable Defibrillator?

Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator is an implantable device used for high-risk patients. High-risk patients may have a history of ventricular fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) or tachycardia (rapid heartbeat). High-risk also includes other heart issues that put you at risk of sudden cardiac failure.

The implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is a 1-inch by 1-inch device that contains a small battery and electrical circuits that monitor your heart's rhythm.

To implant the device, the cardiologist will feed wires, called electrodes, into the heart through your arteries. These wires will create a connection from the ICD to your heart. When the electrodes are in place, they will help monitor your heart's activity.

The ICD has three standard functions:

1. Low-energy pacing
2. Cardioversion
3. Defibrillation

ICD detects a slow heartbeat; it will send a quick electrical shock to get the pulse back to a normal rhythm. If the ICD detects a rapid heartbeat, it will give defibrillation shocks to stop the abnormal rhythm.

Why is an ICD Needed?

If you're a high-risk patient, an ICD implant will be recommended. That means patients who have had previous heart conditions which may lead to sudden cardiac arrest.

That includes any of the following:

• Ventricle tachycardia (irregular heartbeat)
• Ventricle fibrillation (rapid heartbeat)
• Heart attack
• Cardiac arrest
• Heart disease
• Weakened heart

To determine if you are qualified for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, you'll need to consult your cardiologist. The cardiologist will look at your medical history and run a series of diagnostic tests. 

Preparing for the Procedure

Once you've talked to your cardiologist and determined that you're eligible for the ICD procedure, it's time to prepare.

It's okay to feel nervous. Knowing the steps and coming prepared for the procedure may help ease your mind.

First, it's essential to know the procedure is minimally invasive. That means there is no intensive surgery involved. The process will last a few hours, and recovery time will be a few days to a week.

Before the ICD Procedure

Be sure to consult your cardiologist with any questions you may have. Procedures vary depending on each patient, so knowing your medical history will help.

Here is a general overview for preparing for the ICD produce.

1. Tell your doctor about any allergies, including medication, latex, iodine, and anesthesia.
2. Disclose all the medication that you are taking. Include all herbal and over the counter supplements. Specific medications may need to be stopped or reduced before the procedure.

The day of the ICD Procedure

You can expect a fasting period of anywhere from 6 to 12 hours before the procedure.

Before you begin, the cardiologist will take a blood test to see how long it takes your blood to clot. Once the procedure is complete, this will help the cardiologist track results. You may also be required to have an x-ray.

Once you get started, the cardiologist will administer numbing medication and some minor sedatives that will help you relax. General anesthesia is not usually required.

After the ICD Procedure

Post-procedure, you'll stay in the hospital for up to 2 days. The ICD will be tested at various times throughout your stay.

After discharge, you may experience pain or discomfort in the incision area. The pain is treated easily with non-aspirin pain medication.

You should avoid driving and work for at least a week after the procedure.

Living with the ICD

It can take time to get used to the electrical shocks. While they are uncomfortable, you don't have to worry about prolonged significant pain.

It's essential to understand the purpose of the ICD. While it does reduce your risk of sudden cardiac arrest, it is not a cure.

Precautions

There are certain precautions you have to consider after you've had the ICD implanted.

Driving - An ICD can impact how you think about driving. On rare occasions, an ICD has caused temporary loss of consciousness, which can be deadly while driving. After the ICD is implanted, you'll have to wait at least two weeks before you can drive.>

Avoid Industrial Equipment - Heavy equipment, such as strong magnets, can affect ICD's electrical signals.

Anti-theft Detection - It's suggested not to stay near anti-theft detection devices for too long. Anti-theft devices are commonly found at stores.

Cellphone Usage - You are safe to use your cellphone. It is advised to keep your cellphone at least six inches away from the ICD.

Airport/Security - Airport security is generally safe. It's essential to notify the security that you have an ICD because it may set the alarm off.

Avoid MRI Machines - A magnetic resonance imaging machine will affect the programming of your ICD and needs to be avoided. The strong magnetic fields may also cause the ICD to heat.

Avoid High Voltage Devices - High voltage devices, including transmitters, arc welders, high-tension wires, and radars, should be avoided.

Consult your cardiologist for a full list of precautions that are relevant to your ICD. Specific electrical treatments should be avoided.

ICD Procedure Risk Factors

• Infection can occur where the ICD is implanted. It can be removed if an infection is detected (less than 1% of patients)
• Bleeding, swelling, and bruising can occur under the skin near the defibrillator and require drainage
• Vein damage where your ICD leads were inserted.
• Bleeding around your heart, which can be life-threatening (less than 1%)
• Blood leaking through the heart valve where the ICD lead is placed
• Collapsed lung (pneumothorax) (occurs in less than 1% of patients)
• Device failure

Contact one of our cardiologists today to discuss the possibility of an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICD).