Implantable Cardioverter
Defibrillator (ICD): |
On this page: |
What is a ventricular
assist device - When is it used
- How does it work - What
will it accomplish - What are
the risks - When should it not be
used - Recently approved ICDs
- Search all ICDs - Links
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What
is it? |
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator
(ICD) is a device that monitors heart rhythms, and delivers
shocks if dangerous rhythms are detected.
Many ICDs record the heart’s electrical patterns whenever
an abnormal heart beat occurs. Doctors can review this record
during regular check-ups to help plan future treatment options. |
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When
is
it used? |
ICDs are used to treat patients
whose lower heart chambers (ventricles) beat too quickly (tachycardia)
or quiver ineffectively (fibrillation). They are also used in
patients who are at risk of these conditions due to previous
cardiac arrest, heart failure, or ineffective drug therapy for
abnormal heart rhythms. |
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How
does
it work? |
Like a pacemaker, an ICD consists
of a battery and electrical circuitry (pulse generator) connected
to one or more insulated wires. The pulse generator and batteries
are sealed together and implanted under the skin, usually
near the shoulder. The wires are threaded through blood vessels
from the ICD to the heart muscle.
The ICD continuously checks the heart rate. When it detects
a too-rapid or irregular heartbeat, it delivers a shock that
resets the heart to a more normal rate and electrical pattern
(cardioversion).
Stopping the potentially fatal fibrillation is called defibrillation.
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What
will it accomplish? |
ICDs protect against sudden cardiac
death from ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation.
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What
are
the risks? |
Potential risks from the surgical
procedure include infection, bleeding, and bruising. Other
rare complications include stroke, heart attack, blood clots,
or perforation of a major vessel, a lung, or the heart muscle.
Your doctor will tell you about additional risks from ICDs.
Electromagnetic Interference
Some devices in your surroundings may interfere with your
ICD. You may need to avoid certain types of security devices.
Always carry your wallet ID card with you.
- Household devices and appliances may affect
your ICD. Ask your doctor which devices to avoid.
- Some medical equipment can damage your
ICD. If you are visiting your doctor or dentist, tell him
or her that you have an ICD BEFORE they do any testing or
treatment.
- Some security devices may affect your
ICD. A general rule of thumb is “Don’t lean,
don’t linger” when moving through these devices.
- Welders and electric generators may affect
your ICD.
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When
should
it not be used? |
ICDs should not be used in
patients whose heart conditions are reversible or temporary.
They should not be used in patients who will not benefit from
the devices, or who are sensitive (allergic) to the exposed
components. |
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Recently
approved ICDs: |
Find
information about specific ICDs from FDA's Recently Approved
Devices listings. |
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Search
all ICDs: |
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Links:
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