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Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator(ICD)

An ICD is a surgically implanted electrical device used to maintain your hearts rhythm. It typically includes a pulse generator and one or two leads. The leads are electrodes that are attached to the heart. If an abnormal rhythm is detected, the ICD will confirm it and give a low level electrical shock in an attempt to restore normal rhythm.

Preparation
Your physician will explain how the ICD works and answer your questions. After you and your physician have discussed the implantation procedure, you will be asked to sign a consent form. Please read it carefully and ask any questions you have. The lead will be placed in the heart through a vein, usually the vein under the left collar bone. The lead will be attached to the pulse generator, which is implanted under the skin in the same region. The lead will be tested during the procedure to ensure that it functions normally.

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The Procedure
You will remain in the hospital one to three days. The defibrillator will be checked once by inducing tachycardia (the fast rhythm for which the defibrillator was implanted) and allowing the defibrillator to bring the tachycardia to normal. This will be done under sedation so you should not feel anything during the procedure. This is done either before you leave the hospital or up to a month after you are discharged. The defibrillator will be checked in the office approximately every three months. The lead will be placed in the heart through a vein, usually the vein under the left collar bone. The lead will be attached to the pulse generator, which is implanted under the skin in the same region. The lead will be tested during the procedure to ensure that it functions normally.

Following the Procedure
You will remain in the hospital one to three days. The defibrillator will be checked once by inducing tachycardia (the fast rhythm for which the defibrillator was implanted) and allowing the defibrillator to bring the tachycardia to normal. This will be done under sedation so you should not feel anything during the procedure. This is done either before you leave the hospital or up to a month after you are discharged. The defibrillator will be checked in the office approximately every three months.

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