If the ICD detects any rhythms that are programmed to be considered more dangerous it will provide a high-energy shock to get control of the rhythm. The defibrillating shock is a strong one that feels like a kick in the chest. It may also save a life.
Implantation
An artificial pacemaker or ICD is implanted by a minor surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia. The surgery usually takes 1 to 2 hours and the risk of complications is approximately 1 to 2 percent. A pacemaker, about as large as 3 silver dollars, is placed beneath the skin just below the right or left collarbone. The wire or wires are threaded through a large vein into the heart. Using an X-ray, a physician attaches the electrodes at the end of the wires to the inner wall of the heart. The other end of the wire is attached to the device.
An ICD is larger than a pacemaker-about as big as a pager-and is implanted in a similar manner.
Pacemaker and ICD precautions
These devices generally will not prevent you from performing everyday activities, but certain precautions should be considered. Remember to tell your doctor and dentist that you have the device before having any test or procedure. It is also wise to carry a medical ID card in your wallet because medical equipment that uses electromagnetic and radio wave technology may interfere with how your device performs. For example, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses a magnet to produce images of organs, may interrupt your device’s operation. At the current time MRI is not usually considered for patients who have a pacemaker or ICD.
Other medical equipment used to dissolve kidney stones, treat irregular heart rhythms, treat acute or chronic pain, and deliver radiation for treatment of cancerous tumors may interfere with your device’s performance or require reprogramming of the device.
Home appliances do not pose a threat to your device’s operations, but large motors, high-voltage and radar machinery, such as transmitters and arc welding equipment, could temporarily affect your device.
Sources
Reiffel, James A., Dizon, Jose. The Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator-Patient Perspective. Circulation. 2002;105:1022-1024.
Wood, Mark A., Ellenbogen, Kenneth A. Cardiac Pacemakers From the Patient’s Perspective. Circulation. 2002;105:2136-2138.
Baptist Health. Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD).
American Academy of Family Physicians. The Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator.
American Heart Association. Pacemakers.
Last Updated: April 2008
