It is a type of pacemaker, but one which regulates extreme disturbances in rhythm and cardiac disturbances. It does not set regular rhythm, like a regular pacemaker. Instead, it is a device that corrects extremely abnormal heart rhythms.
What is an Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) ?
An Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) is a battery-driven apparatus positioned below the skin of your upper chest or abdomen, to monitor your heart rate. The ICD will be connected to your heart through wires called ‘leads’. The heart transmits electric signals, via these leads to the ICD. The ICD, in turn, through a feedback mechanism, delivers an electric pulse or shock to re-establish the usual heartbeat, if your heart is beating irregularly, too slow or too rapidly. The practice of regaining the normal heartbeat from an abnormal or rapid rhythm by delivering an electric shock to the heart is called Cardiac defibrillation.
How do implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICDs) work?
The Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICD) is the most effectual means we have to avoid death from VENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA/FIBRILLATION. Unlike pacemakers, which are designed to convey low-energy electrical pulses and maintain pacing of the heart, the ICD is designed to deliver elevated energy electrical pulses (shocks) to the heart to rectify severe fast and continuous arrhythmias (such as ventricular fibrillations & tachycardias or atrial fibrillations) that are not easily correctable and can be potentially fatal.
Simply put, it knows when the heartbeat is not normal & it tries to return it to normal. It can also work as a regular pacemaker if your heart is beating too slowly.
The increased energy shocks are also known as defibrillation shocks and are typically known to be painful or aching by majority of the patients who have undergone it, but these shocks are the life-savers of the ICD. Some patients have described the feeling of shock as being kicked in the upper body for a moment. Usually a single shock is needed, but occasionally, a succession of shocks can be felt if the abnormal heart rhythm does not get corrected.
Defibrillation functionality has increased with each new generation of device.
How is an cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implanted into your body?
It is implanted under the skin, much like a pacemaker. It will be done under local anesthesia and sedation. You will be awake during the procedure. The conducting leads are attached to the heart, whilst the ICD is placed wither under the collarbone, or abdomen under the ribs, or the bikini line of the abdomen, if cosmetics are a consideration. Patients are usually out of the hospital the day after the device implantation, thus not entailing a lengthy, expensive hospital stay.
How long is an cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) left in the patient?
The basic objective of ICD treatment is to avert untimely arrhythmic death. So, usually it has to be put in indefinitely, except if there has been a striking change in the patient’s condition, such as getting a heart transplant.
What are the adverse effects of ICD implantation ?
Short-term complications could include infection or complications at the time of surgery. Long-term complications include pain at the site, cosmetic concerns (the ICD can be seen as a lump) and psychological concerns such as fear or apprehension of the electrical shocks.
What are the follow-up procedures for ICD implantation?
You have to routinely visit your doctor/ cardiologist, every 3 to 6 months. Your heart rate and the physical condition of your heart will be checked through non-invasive testing.
What is the care you have to take post-ICD implantation?
You have to keep in mind to meet your doctor regularly. The ICD has to be checked at least every six months.
There will be specific lifestyle restrictions- such as driving and restriction of physical activity. You will be required to keep away from magnetic and powerful electrical fields. At the airport, inform authorities of your ICD, so they can use the hand-held metal detectors instead of the whole body scanners which disturb the rhythm of the ICD. Carry an ID card of your ICD on your person, so all can know that you have a defibrillator.
Microwave ovens, remote controls for TV, cell phones and other common household appliances will not affect the activity of your ICD. However, if you do use your cellphone, use it on the ear, opposite to your ICD. Do not keep your phone in your chest pocket, over the ICD.
Medications such as antiarrhythmic drugs may still have to be taken by some patients. The batteries of the device will last for about 4 to 7 years. You should be mentally prepared for re-operation, in case of battery changes for the ICD.
How to find and reach cardiologists for ICD implantation ?
Now you can find cardiologists for ICD implantation from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions from multiple cardiologists, get cost estimates for ICD implantation from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a cardiologist for ICD implantation.
Find and choose a cardiologist for ICD implantation on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
