FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER ICD IMPLANTATION?
After the implantation, you may experience minimal pain and slight swelling at the site. Pain medication will be provided if needed. Expect to wear a sling for a few days, avoid lifting more than ten pounds, and keep your elbow below shoulder level for three weeks. Steer clear of strenuous activities like a full golf swing for several months. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled in the next couple of weeks, with regular check-ins at our device clinic once or twice a year. Home monitoring can complement these office visits.
Let’s review the procedure in more detail so you will know what to expect.
After your ICD implantation, you’ll be moved to a recovery area where medical staff will closely monitor your vital signs and the device’s function. You may feel some discomfort around the incision site, which is typically located just below the collarbone. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication if needed. Most patients stay in the hospital for a day or two following the procedure, allowing for observation and initial device programming.
Upon returning home, you’ll need to take it easy for several weeks. Your doctor will provide specific instructions, but generally, you should avoid lifting heavy objects or raising the arm on the side of the implant above shoulder level. This precaution helps prevent the ICD leads from shifting before they’re fully settled in your heart. You’ll also need to keep the incision site clean and dry to prevent infection. Wearing loose-fitting clothing can help minimize irritation around the implant area.
As you recover, you’ll gradually return to your normal activities. Many patients feel more secure knowing they have a device that can intervene if a dangerous heart rhythm occurs. However, it’s normal to have some anxiety about the possibility of the device delivering a shock. Your healthcare team can provide strategies for managing these feelings and explain what to expect if your ICD does activate.
Regular check-ups are crucial after ICD implantation. Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure your ICD is functioning correctly and to make any necessary adjustments. Many modern ICDs can be monitored remotely, allowing your healthcare team to track your heart’s performance and the device’s function without frequent in-person visits.
Living with an ICD doesn’t typically require significant lifestyle changes, but there are some factors to keep in mind. You’ll need to carry an ICD identification card and inform medical professionals about your device before undergoing any procedures. Certain electronic devices and security systems can interfere with ICDs, so it’s important to be aware of these potential interactions.
While complications are rare, it’s essential to know the signs that warrant immediate medical attention. These include fever, swelling or redness at the incision site, persistent pain, or if your ICD delivers multiple shocks. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
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.