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Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation

Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation

Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation

An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a medical device surgically placed under the skin on your chest. It comprises a battery and thin wires known as leads. The battery is roughly the size of a stopwatch, and the leads extend into your heart chambers to regulate your heart's rhythm. This battery-powered device continuously monitors your heart rate and rhythm. Its pulse generator delivers an electric shock when necessary to correct arrhythmias. The leads conduct the shock to your heart.

Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD implantation is done for the following purposes:

  • Correcting arrhythmias, such as irregular heart rates or rhythms that are too fast (tachycardia) or too slow (bradycardia).

  • Preventing sudden cardiac arrest.

  • Collecting data about your heart's function to assist your healthcare providers in making informed treatment recommendations.

An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is different from a pacemaker. A pacemaker is a device that helps the heart beat regularly.  

FAQ's

An ICD is a device used to monitor and manage cardiac rhythms and is placed beneath the collarbone or down the left side. It has leads that attach to the heart muscle, computer circuits, and a battery. Heart signals are recorded by the ICD, and patients can examine the data remotely or at clinic visits. Subcutaneous ICDs do not function as pacemakers (generate electric shock to correct arrhythmias); transvenous ICDs do. The jolt may feel like a "kick in the chest." After 5-8 years, the battery needs to be replaced as it runs out of power. Monitoring regularly guarantees the ICD's correct operation and battery life.

An operating room is used for the ICD insertion procedure. Usually, one to three hours may be required for the device implantation.

 

Before the procedure, medical staff will attach a heart monitor and insert a tube into an arm vein to give you fluids and medicine. When the procedure starts, your physician will:

  • A local anaesthetic is administered to lessen the sensation in the area around your collarbone.

  • A tiny incision is made close to your collarbone so that the ICD can fit inside a pocket created beneath the skin.

  • Inside a large vein on the right side of your heart, ICD leads will be threaded.

  • Small screws are used to secure the leads' ends inside the heart.

  • The ICDs are programmed, and some tests are performed to make sure they are working properly. 

  • The ICD device is placed inside the subcutaneous pocket. 

  • The incision site is sutured, and the area is covered with a bandage. 

  • Additional leads may be inserted with your ICD, depending on your doctor’s assessment of your condition. If you have congestive heart failure, doctors might suggest a bi-ventricular ICD for you.

After your surgery, hospital staff will take you to the recovery area. A special dressing will be applied to the incision site. Do not change this dressing until instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. Your doctor will provide you with detailed instructions for wound care. You may experience some bruising and soreness in the area, but these should subside within a few weeks.

Additionally, you will receive advice regarding what you can and cannot do as you heal from your procedure. This can involve refraining from lifting anything heavy or donning garments that will push against your wound.

The following are potential side effects of implanted cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) or ICD surgery:

  • Infection in the area surrounding the implant

  • Haemorrhage, bruising, or swelling

  • ICD wire injury to blood vessels

  • Haemorrhage surrounding the heart, which may be fatal

  • Where the ICD lead is located on the heart valve, blood may seep through

  • Collapsed lung.

  • Movement of the leads or devices could cause the heart muscle to tear or cut. Heart perforation is a rare complication.

To restore a normal heart rhythm, most people only need one electrical shock. However, some individuals may require two or more shocks within 24 hours. Your healthcare provider can adjust the number and strength of the shocks as needed. Get help right away if you experience three or more shocks in a short time. We refer to that as an arrhythmia storm or electrical storm. It can indicate that you are experiencing a cardiac emergency or that there is a problem with the ICD.

It's crucial to schedule routine follow-up visits at your ICD clinic so that your device can be checked. Depending on your ICD type and whether treatment has been administered, appointments may be scheduled every three to twelve months. These are appointments that you will always require. However, some ICD checks can be done from home. You can send the information your device collects to your doctor. This implies that you might not require hospitalisation.

However, you must follow the below instructions to ensure device safety:

  • You might have to alter your way of life, such as if you drive or participate in contact sports.

  • Learn how electronic devices like TENS units and airport security systems may affect your implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).

Consult your medical team if you have had an ICD installed, have questions about how it operates, or need guidance following an ICD operation. You might need an emergency consultation in the following instances:

  • Your wound starts to leak fluid.

  • An infection develops in your wound. 

  • It gets red, bloated, heated, or leaky.

  • You develop a fever for up to eight weeks following the operation. 

  • You still experience any pre-procedural cardiac symptoms.

 

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