FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.
HOW IS AN ICD IMPLANTED?
Implantation closely resembles pacemaker insertion. The ICD is usually placed under the skin via a small incision beneath the collarbone. A lead is then guided through a vein to the heart, making contact with its lining. This lead enables the defibrillator to monitor the heartbeat. Upon detecting any cardiac electrical irregularities, the defibrillator can charge and deliver a shock to reset the heart, akin to having a paramedic ready. The procedure is performed under sedation and local anesthesia. You may be discharged on the same day or require an overnight stay, depending on the circumstances.
Let’s review in more detail how an ICD is implanted.
An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) is a small device placed under the skin to monitor and regulate heart rhythm. For patients at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias, an ICD can be a lifesaver. The device continuously monitors the heart’s electrical activity and can deliver electric shocks to restore normal rhythm when necessary.
Before the implantation, your cardiologist will conduct a thorough evaluation, including various tests, to ensure you’re a suitable candidate for an ICD. You’ll receive instructions on preparing for the procedure, which may include fasting and temporarily stopping certain medications. It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider at this stage.
ICD implantation is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation and takes one to three hours. A small incision is made near the collarbone to create a pocket under the skin where the ICD will be placed. Thin wires, called leads, are guided through a vein to the heart using X-ray imaging. These leads are then connected to the ICD device, which is placed in the pocket under the skin.
Once the ICD is in place, your doctor will test it to ensure it’s functioning correctly. This may involve inducing a rapid heartbeat to verify that the device can detect and correct the arrhythmia. The ICD is then programmed to your specific needs, taking into account your heart condition and any previous arrhythmic events.
After the procedure, you’ll be monitored in the hospital for a short period, typically overnight. You’ll receive instructions on caring for the incision site, managing pain, and gradually returning to normal activities. It’s important to follow up regularly with your cardiologist to check the device’s function and adjust settings if necessary.
While an ICD can significantly improve your quality of life and provide peace of mind, it does require some lifestyle adjustments. Your doctor will provide guidance on activities to avoid and precautions to take with electronic devices. Regular check-ups are essential to ensure the ICD continues to function optimally.
If you’re considering an ICD or have concerns about your heart health, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team of cardiologists in Atlanta. Our specialists have the latest technology and expertise to provide personalized care tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards better heart health and peace of mind.
Trust your heart health to CVG’s twenty board-certified cardiologists. Equipped with leading-edge diagnostic tools, a wealth of experience, and compassion, our cardiac team provides the highest level of personalized care.
You can review our cardiologists’ pages and explore their exceptional credentials and dedication to providing quality care. You can trust that our doctors genuinely care about you and will do everything they can to ensure you have the best quality of life possible.
To learn more, please call (770) 962-0399 or 678-582-8586. You may also request an appointment online. If you have an emergency, don’t contact us online; please call 911.