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What is an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator? — An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, also called an "ICD," is a device that goes under a person's skin near their heart (figure 1). An ICD can sense and treat certain abnormal heartbeats.
A person's heart needs to beat normally in order to pump blood to the brain and rest of the body. But sometimes, a person's heartbeat can suddenly become abnormal. The heartbeat could be too slow, too fast, or out of rhythm.
Some abnormal heartbeats are dangerous, because they can prevent the heart from pumping blood to the brain and rest of the body. A "cardiac arrest" is when an abnormal heartbeat prevents the heart from pumping blood normally. A cardiac arrest can happen without warning, and can cause death if it is not treated right away.
An ICD can treat the abnormal heartbeats that can lead to a cardiac arrest. People who have an ICD have a greater chance of surviving a cardiac arrest.
Why might I need an ICD? — You might need an ICD if you:
●Have a condition that can cause abnormal heartbeats
●Have had 1 or more episodes of abnormal heartbeats
How does an ICD work? — An ICD works to:
●Sense abnormal heartbeats
●Give the heart 1 or more treatments if the heartbeat becomes abnormal. This can involve sending quick electrical pulses to make the heart beat at a certain speed. It can also involve giving a shock of electricity. These treatments can get the heart to beat normally again on its own.
●Record abnormal heartbeats so that a doctor can see how a person's heart has been beating
What does an ICD look like? — An ICD has 2 parts:
●Battery (picture 1) – This sits under the skin. Depending on the type of ICD, it goes either in the upper chest or on the side, near the armpit. When the ICD senses an abnormal heartbeat, the battery creates an electrical shock or shocks that travel through wires to the heart.
●Wires, also called "leads" – In many ICDs, these go from the battery through a vein (blood vessel) and into the heart. There is another type of ICD that has wires that go under the skin. These wires sit near the heart but not actually inside the heart.
Can there be side effects to having an ICD? — Yes. Your doctor will talk with you about the different side effects that can occur. Side effects can occur when a doctor puts in an ICD. People who have had an ICD for a long time can also have side effects. But most people do not have any side effects from having an ICD.
What should I do after my ICD treats an abnormal heartbeat? — If your ICD gives you a shock, you will probably feel it, although it is possible you might pass out before you notice any pain. If either of these things happen, let your doctor know. They will look at the record of your heartbeats and might decide to make changes to the way your ICD works.
Do people with an ICD need other treatment? — Sometimes people with an ICD will need other treatment. This can include medicines or procedures.
What if I want to get pregnant? — If you want to get pregnant, talk with your doctor or nurse. Many people with an ICD are able to have a baby.
What will my life be like? — Most people with an ICD have a normal life. But you will need to:
●Check your ICD on a regular basis to make sure that it works – Many people can check their ICD from their home, using either their phone or computer.
●Talk to your doctor about driving – Many states do not allow people to drive for some amount of time after they have an ICD put in or after they get a shock from their ICD. Your doctor will tell you how long you need to wait before you drive again.
●Avoid certain electric or magnetic sources – People who have an ICD need to avoid certain electric or magnetic sources or equipment. Your doctor will tell you which ones are safe for you to be near, and which ones you should avoid. For example, some people with an ICD should not walk through a metal detector at the airport. People who cannot walk through a metal detector can have a security search by hand instead.
●Be aware of cell phones and other devices – Some cell phones or other devices, like "smart watches," might have a strong magnet that could affect your ICD. If you are not sure if your device has a magnet, check with the company that made it, or ask your doctor. To be safe, it's a good idea to carry your cell phone in a pocket or bag below your waist so it is not right next to your ICD.
●Let all of your doctors and nurses know that you have an ICD – Some procedures and tests are safe for people with an ICD, but others are not. For example, most people with an ICD should not have a type of imaging test called an MRI scan, but some new ICDs are safe in the MRI machine. Most doctors recommend that people wear a medical bracelet letting others know that they have an ICD.
Some people who have an ICD feel worried or sad. If you feel worried or sad, let your doctor or nurse know so they can help.
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Patient education: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Pacemakers (Beyond the Basics)
