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The implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD, also known as cardiac defibrillator surgery, is a battery-powered device that can be put in the chest to detect and stop arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats.
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All You Need to Know About Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) The implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD, also known as cardiac defibrillator surgery, is a battery-powered device that can be put in the chest to detect and stop arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats. It constantly checks the heartbeat and sends electric shocks to bring back the normal heart rate. An example of someone who might need an ICD are people with extremely fast heartbeat rates or people with weak hearts who are at high risk. An ICD, however, is not a pacemaker but prevents dangerously slow heartbeats, unlike a pacemaker. The ICD stores and documents data about heart rhythm and treatments. Defibrillation shocks are sometimes called a “thump in the chest.” Moreover, the ICD may serve as a basic pacemaker as well, with its “back-up” pacemaker that stimulates the heart to beat faster until normal heart rhythm is restored. The pulse generator, battery, and electrodes that measure the electrical activity of the heart are components of the ICD. The ICD may have one, two, or three electrodes. The majority of them usually have pacemakers built inside, which are used when the heart is too slow or fast or when a jolt happens. A subcutaneous ICD is one type of ICD that is specific to not being able to be used as a pacemaker and has only one lead in tissue on
the left side of the sternum (breastbone). How ICD is Implanted? Before the procedure: Prior to the implantable cardioverter defibrillator, the heart surgeon will ask for a period of fasting lasting hours for various tests, including a blood test, a urine test, and an ECG (electrocardiogram), to ascertain your fitness status. And we also need information in the event that the patient has bleeding disorder(s), is on blood thinners, is allergic to contrast agents, or is on medications that contain iodine. During the procedure: An ICD procedure is basically a surgical technique done in a hospital that normally takes a few hours. The commonest procedure is transvenous, whereby a minor cut is made around the collarbone, leading to veins used as a path for the leads to get into the heart. However, there are some instances where an individual may have to undergo open-heart surgery. Initially, anesthesia will be administered to the patient, then an incision made close to the collarbone, chest, or stomach, wires inserted into the heart chambers, the ICD put in a place beneath the skin, the leads connected, the system and also the wires tested, and then the incision stitched up before checking the system again so that the patient can be sent to the recovery room. After the procedure: Patients may feel tired and sore near the incision after ICD implantation, which could be made more bearable with pain medication. Most patients leave the hospital one day following surgical treatment, but some may be admitted for a few more days to ensure proper recuperation. The ICD system may undergo a test prior to discharge by the cardiologist or electrophysiologist who inserted it. How do ICDs Work? What Should You Avoid With a Defibrillator? Experiencing Cardioverter Defibrillators ? Visit our cardiologist right away! GET A FREE SECOND OPINION For more details visit : yashodahospitals.com