When is an ICD Recommended?

An ICD may be recommended in conditions such as:

• Ventricular tachycardia
• Ventricular fibrillation
• Severe heart muscle weakness
• Patients at high risk of sudden cardiac arrest

How is the Device Implanted?

ICD implantation is a minimally invasive procedure usually performed under local anesthesia.

The procedure involves:

• Inserting electrical leads through a vein into the heart
• Connecting the leads to a small device implanted under the skin in the chest
• Programming the device to monitor heart rhythm and deliver therapy when needed

How Does the Device Work?

The ICD continuously monitors the heart rhythm and when a serious arrhythmia is detected, it can:

• Deliver pacing signals to correct the rhythm
• Deliver an electrical shock to restore normal heart rhythm

Benefits of an ICD

The device helps to:

• Continuously monitor heart rhythm
• Prevent sudden cardiac arrest
• Treat dangerous arrhythmias quickly
• Provide increased safety for high-risk patients

Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up visits are necessary to ensure the device functions properly and to adjust its settings if needed.

A Message to Patients

For patients at risk of serious heart rhythm disturbances,
an implantable cardioverter defibrillator can provide effective protection and help maintain heart safety.