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Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation

Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation

Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator ICD Implantation in Dhakuria

An automated cardioverter defibrillator or implantable cardioverter defibrillator is a battery-powered small device placed in the chest. This device constantly checks for heartbeats and irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). It not only helps in the detection of irregular heartbeat but also restores a regular heart rhythm by delivering small electric signals.

The following are the types of ICDs:

  • Subcutaneous ICD: An automated cardioverter defibrillator can be placed under the chest below the armpit and is attached to a sensor called an electrode.  The subcutaneous type is slightly larger than a traditional one.
  • Traditional or conventional ICD: It is placed in the chest and has leads (wire) that are attached to the heart.

FAQ's

An automated cardioverter defibrillator is a device that helps to constantly maintain a normal heart rate. When the device detects a change in the heart rate, it intervenes by producing electric signals. They are different from pacemakers which stimulate the heart rate. A few defibrillators also function as pacemakers.

Most heart conditions are managed with the help of medications and lifestyle changes in the early stages. When the conditions do not improve even after treatment, an automated cardioverter defibrillator is implanted. Following are the conditions in which ICD can be implanted.

  • Congenital heart diseases
  • Heart attack
  • Cardiac arrest
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Arrhythmias

A cardiac surgeon or an electrophysiologist are specialists who implant an ICD.

An automated cardioverter defibrillator works on batteries. The batteries must last for about seven years. They are checked every three to six months.

Depending on the ICD type implanted, the device can store data about heart rhythm.

They can also be directed remotely by a healthcare professional to deliver a mild to strong electric signal when needed.

Following are the preparatory measures before implanting an ICD.

  • Fasting is done for several hours before the procedure
  • One should carry out blood tests, Electrocardiogram and urine tests to ensure that an individual is fit to carry out the implantation procedure
  • History of any bleeding disorders and medications taken regularly should be informed to the healthcare provider 
  • The Implantation of an Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator is done in a hospital and the procedure lasts for about a few hours
  • The implantation procedure is selected based on the individual's health, and the device type
  • The most common approach to implantation is the transvenous approach
  • In certain situations, an Open Heart Surgery can also be required.

Following are the steps in Implanting an Automated Cardioverter Defibrillator.

  • The health care professional gives an IV (intravenous) anaesthetic and this procedure is carried out under general anaesthesia
  • An incision is made at the collarbone region, chest, or abdomen
  • The subclavian vein is accessed and the wires of the device are placed in the heart chambers
  • The ICD device is placed in a pouch under the skin
  • The wires (leads) are connected to the heart and ICD
  • The device is tested for its functioning and the incision is closed
  • Before sending to recovery, the whole system is once again checked

There is a feeling of tiredness or soreness in the region of the incision for a certain period. Pain medications are advised to make an individual comfortable. Depending on the health status, one can go home soon after the procedure or may be advised to stay in the hospital for a few days until recovery.

An automated cardioverter defibrillator is programmed to deliver low-energy or high-energy shocks. A low-energy shock can feel like a thump or flutter in the chest. High-energy shocks can be given for severe conditions causing pain for a moment and can be produced as a blow to the chest.

Only one shock is necessary to restore the normal heart rhythm. Few require two or more shocks in a single day. The frequency or intensity is adjusted by the healthcare professional.

When an individual receives more than two or more shocks in a short interval, it is advisable to seek medical attention immediately. Such a situation is called an electrical storm which indicates that there is a cardiac emergency or it can also indicate the malfunctioning of ICD.

An ICD can help in preventing certain life-threatening conditions like severe arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest. It records and provides a constant health report to the cardiologist. A few risks or disadvantages of an automated cardioverter defibrillator are as follows:

  • Bleeding
  • Pneumothorax (Collapsed lung)
  • Infections
  • Swelling
  • Damage to the blood vessels
  • Malfunction

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