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Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation

Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation

Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation in Broadway

An Automated Implanted Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD/ICD) is a medical device that continuously monitors your heart rate and rhythm. It is surgically implanted under the skin and connects to your heart through thin wires called leads. This battery-operated device can prevent sudden cardiac arrest and treat life-threatening arrhythmias by delivering an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm.

If you have an Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation, it's important to be aware of factors that could affect its operation. Living with an AICD requires regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor heart health, battery life, and device settings. At Manipal Hospitals, our healthcare professionals are trained in specialised cardiac device implantation to ensure your safety and optimal heart care. 

 

FAQ's

A device called an automatic implanted defibrillator, or AICD, is placed into the chest to assist in correcting rapid, irregular heartbeats. These irregular heart patterns are called arrhythmias. Your heart rhythm is the electrical signal that makes the heartbeat.
The ICD instructs the heart to slow down its rapid beat and return to normal by using electrical impulses.
AICDs have two parts: the ICD generator box and the leads. On the left or right side of your chest, the gadget is positioned beneath the skin. 
 

The electrical beat of a healthy heart is constant and regular. Nonetheless, this rhythm may be disturbed in certain individuals, causing the heart to beat excessively quickly or slowly. We refer to this disorder as arrhythmia.

An individual may have arrhythmia due to:

  • Growing older
  • Genetic or inherited factors
  • Coronary heart disease
  • An earlier cardiac arrest
  • Heart valve or muscle issues
  • Heart failure or issues relating to the "electrical system" or structure of your heart

Your doctor may suggest an ICD if you have previously experienced a rapid, hazardous arrhythmia that caused you to collapse or if you are at risk of developing arrhythmia.
 

Prior to having your AICD installed, you must:

  • Consult your physician about taking your regular prescriptions, such as blood thinners and diabetic drugs.
  • When it's time to leave the hospital, you'll need to arrange for someone to come fetch you and assist you in getting home.
  • Bring along a few necessities for your overnight stay, such as slippers, pyjamas, and toiletries.
  • Before your surgery, take a shower with a special surgical wash that your doctor has recommended and will explain when and how to use it.
  • Avoid eating or drinking anything before your surgery; your physician will advise you on how long to fast before the procedure.
  • Take off all of your jewellery. 
     

Before receiving an ICD, several tests are conducted to check heart health. These tests include an ECG (electrocardiogram), echocardiogram, Holter monitoring, event monitoring, and electrophysiology study. ECGs check the heartbeat using electrodes placed on the chest and arms, while echocardiograms use sound waves to create images of the heart. Holter monitors and tracks heart rhythms and can identify irregular rhythms missed by ECGs. Event monitors are portable ECG devices that can be worn for up to 30 days. Finally, an electrophysiology study confirms a diagnosis of a fast heartbeat and identifies the heart's irregularity area.
 

There are two types of AICD:

  • Traditional AICD: the traditional AICD is inserted into the chest. Leads, which are wires, are connected to the heart.
  • Subcutaneous AICD: under the skin, beneath the armpit, on the side of the chest, lies a subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD). It is fastened to an electrode, which is a type of sensor. The breastbone is where the sensor is located. A standard ICD is smaller than an S-ICD. It bypasses the heart.

The most popular method is the transvenous technique. A little incision close to your collarbone is made. Your doctor reaches your heart by threading the lines via veins. But occasionally, open cardiac surgery is necessary for implantation.

ICD procedures might differ greatly. However, typically, your medical professional will:

  • Give you IV anaesthesia to help you fall asleep or relax.
  • Use a local anaesthetic to numb a specific region of skin.
  • Make a cut close to the chest, abdomen, or collarbone.
  • Insert the wires into the heart chambers through the subclavian vein.
  • Put the ICD in a subcutaneous pouch.
  • Attach the leads to the ICD and the heart.
  • To make sure everything is correctly connected and functioning, test the device and the cables.
  • Seal the cut.
  • Before sending you to recovery, do another test on the system. 
     

Your post-AICD area may be achy, and you may feel tired.
Painkillers may be recommended by your healthcare professional to help you feel more comfortable.
After surgery, many patients return home the same day. Your length of stay in the hospital may vary based on your condition and the operation you underwent.
Your healthcare professional may retest the ICD system right before you leave for home.
 

Sudden cardiac arrest and potentially fatal arrhythmias can be avoided with an AICD. It can also provide your cardiologist with vital information about your heart.
 

In general, AICD implantation is risk-free. However, the operation has risks, just like any other, such as:

  • Bruises or bleeding
  • Pulmonary collapse (pneumothorax)
  • Blood vessel damage is caused by the leads
  • Infection at the location of the cut
  • Device failure
  • Lead dislodgement
  • The device's movement has the potential to rip interior tissue
  • Swelling
     

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