Implantable cardioverter defibrillator surgery

Hospitalization

Yes

Length of stay

1 to 3 Days

Anesthesia

Local cardiac

Length of procedure

2 to 3 Hours

What is implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) surgery?

An ICD is a device with battery that goes under the skin and somehow control the heart rate. Thin wires connect the ICD to heart. If an abnormal heart rhythm happen, the device will give an electric shock to heart to restore a normal heartbeat. ICDs have been very useful in preventing sudden death in patients with known, sustained ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Studies have shown that, they may have a role in preventing cardiac arrest in high-risk patients who haven't had, but are at risk for, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.

• Patients who have a ventricular arrhythmia • Patients who have a heart attack • Patients who survived a sudden cardiac arrest • Patients who have congenital heart disease or other underlying conditions for sudden cardiac arrest

Before the procedure

Before making the decision for placing an ICD, some information about heart is required such as: • Heart rhythm pattern by electrocardiogram (EKG) • Heart rhythms for a 24-hour period (during regular activities) by Holter monitoring • Heart activity and oxygen saturation during either rest or exercise. Patients should tell a complete medical history to the doctor. Also need to let the doctor know about all of the medicines and supplements (vitamins, minerals and herbal medicines) taken and allergies. Doctor will manage patient’s medicines because some medicines like warfarin, aspirin and Plavix should be stopped some days prior to the surgery.

During the procedure

After the procedure