Implanted Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)

An Implanted Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) is an implanted device used to assist hearts that beat too rapidly. If the device senses that the heart is beating irregularly or abnormally fast, it will send an electrical impulse that resets the heart to a normal rhythm. An ICD is prescribed for patients who have symptoms—including palpitations, dizziness, fainting spells, chest pain or shortness of breath—that are due to a rapid heart beat (tachycardia). The ICD also has the ability to sense if the heart begins to beat too slowly. If this occurs, it will send small electrical signals to pace the heart at a normal rate, similar to the function of a pacemaker.

Defibrillator patients are seen every three months to assess their device function and monitor for recurrence or worsening of their arrhythmia. During each visit, clinic staff uses special equipment to check the battery, evaluate the function of the leads, and adjust ICD programming to ensure that the device is operating at maximum efficiency.

Between check-ups, you can do your part to prolong the life of your implanted device by following some simple guidelines.

Properly maintained household appliances and tools—computers, shavers, microwave ovens, stoves, televisions and electric blankets—should not affect the function of your defibrillator. To avoid interference in other situations, keep at least 1 foot away from:

• arc welders
• power generators
• radio transmitters
• strong magnets
• stereo speakers
• cordless power tools
• anti-theft systems (moving through at normal pace is fine)
• airport security magnetic wands
• transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation units (TENS)

Cellular phones (not cordless phones) may affect how the ICD senses arrhythmias. It is easy to avoid cell phone interference by using the ear farthest from your implanted device and by not carrying your phone in a pocket or purse within 6 inches of the implant. Any interference will cease when the phone is moved away from the device. Dental drills and equipment will not interfere with the ICD.

ICD function:

• You may feel a thump in your chest as the device is activated.
• If you receive a singe shock and feel normal, call the office (221-1000) to notify the Device Clinic.
• If you receive one or more shocks and do not feel well, call 911 immediately.