Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)
If you are having any symptoms or have any questions, please call 811 to speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day.
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a type of medical implant device. It tracks and treats an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It sends an electric current through your heart when needed. The ICD is smaller than a cell phone. It has two main parts: a pulse generator and a lead (wire). The pulse generator constantly keeps track of your heartbeat. It’s like a small computer that runs on a battery. It sends signals and electric currents between your heart and the pulse generator. Some people need multiple leads with their ICD.
Path to improved well being
Your healthcare provider may recommend an ICD to treat your irregular heartbeat. There are many different types of arrhythmias. Treatment depends on what kind of arrhythmia you have. An ICD is one form of treatment. You may need an ICD if you have or are at high risk of a life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia. Examples include ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. Having a previous heart attack, heart disease, or cardiac arrest are other reasons you may need an ICD.
Ventricular tachycardia is when the bottom chambers of your heart (the ventricles) beat too fast When this happens, your heart has a hard time pumping blood. As a result, not enough blood is pumped to your body and your brain. This is life-threatening.
Ventricular fibrillation is when the bottom chambers of your heart (the ventricles) beat too fast and unevenly. The heart flutters, and little or no blood is pumped to your body and brain. Someone who has this type of arrhythmia is at risk of passing out. Treatment is required within minutes in order to prevent death.
How is an ICD implanted?
The ICD is usually implanted during a minor surgery. The pulse generator is placed under your collarbone on the left or right side of your chest, or in your abdomen (stomach area). It can go in a “pocket” under your skin in a muscle. One end of the lead (wire) into a vein that goes to your heart. The wire is moved through the vein until it reaches the heart. The other end of the wire is attached to the pulse generator. Once it is implanted, the ICD is programmed and tested by the healthcare provider to treat your specific heart rhythm problem. This requires a short hospital stay.
How does the ICD work?
The ICD’s job is to quickly recognize and stop problems. It does this by keeping track of your heart rhythm at all times. If your heartbeat becomes irregular, the ICD delivers the treatment. The ICD can do several things:
- Pacing: For mild ventricular tachycardia, the ICD can deliver several pacing signals in a row. These signals cause your heart to return to a normal rhythm.
- Cardioversion: This is used if pacing doesn’t work. Cardioversion sends a mild shock to your heart to stop the fast heartbeat.
- Defibrillation: For ventricular fibrillation, the ICD sends a stronger shock. This can stop the fast rhythm and help the heartbeat go back to normal.
- Pacemaker: The ICD can detect when your heart beats too slow. It can act like a pacemaker and bring your heart rate up to normal.
What does treatment with an ICD feel like?
When the ICD delivers pacing or acts as a pacemaker, you may not feel anything. This is because little energy is used. Some people feel fluttering in their chest. However, there is no pain or discomfort. Cardioversion is stronger. It can feel like a thump in your chest.
Defibrillation is the strongest. Most people say it feels like being kicked in the chest. It often happens all of a sudden. It lasts less than a second. It can make you upset or anxious afterward. However, it’s important to remember that it probably saved your life.
Things to consider
An ICD does not cure an arrhythmia or heart disease. It manages your condition(s) and helps prevent cardiac arrest and death. In addition to ICD, your healthcare provider may prescribe medicine. Follow all instructions and tell your healthcare provider what other medicines you take. Ask your healthcare provider for an ICD wallet ID card. It is important that you carry this at all times. You will need this when you travel and in case of an emergency.
How will an ICD affect my lifestyle?
After you get an ICD, you will need to limit activity. This allows your body to adjust and heal properly. You can slowly go back to your regular lifestyle. Ask your healthcare provider when it is safe to drive a car again. It will vary based on your condition. The Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation recommends waiting six months.
You’ll need to stay away from machines that could interfere with your ICD. Do not work near strong magnetic fields or strong electrical fields. The ICD is safe around most home power tools and electric appliances, including microwave ovens. However, make sure that all electric items are properly grounded and in good repair. Your healthcare provider will help you understand what precautions to take when you have an ICD.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation
59891