Implantable cardioverter defibrillator
Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a small device that's placed in the chest or abdomen. Doctors use the device to help treat irregular heartbeats called arrhythmias.
Overview[edit | edit source]
An ICD uses electrical pulses or shocks to help control life-threatening arrhythmias, especially those that can cause sudden cardiac arrest. If an ICD detects a dangerous heart rhythm, it sends an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal heartbeat.
How does an ICD work?[edit | edit source]
An ICD constantly monitors your heart rhythm. If it detects a rhythm that's too slow, it can pace the heart as a pacemaker would. If it detects a dangerous heart rhythm, it sends one or more of the following treatments:
- Low-energy pacing therapy: You might feel a painless fluttering in your chest when this therapy happens.
- Cardioversion therapy: A higher energy shock is delivered synchronously with the heart rhythm to convert a fast rhythm back to a normal rhythm.
- Defibrillation therapy: The highest energy shock is delivered asynchronously to stop a very fast, life-threatening heart rhythm.
Risks[edit | edit source]
ICDs are generally safe. Complications are rare, but could include:
- Infection and bleeding at the implant site.
- Damage to the vein where the ICD leads are placed.
- The leads could move out of place or fail.
- The ICD could fail and need to be replaced.
Living with an ICD[edit | edit source]
Most people with ICDs live healthy, active lives. They can do the same activities and sports that healthy people can do. However, they may need to avoid full-contact sports, such as football, that could damage the ICD or shake loose its wires.
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