ICD

Also known as implantable cardioverter defibrillators

What is an ICD?

An ICD is an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. It is a device which is able to give the heart small electrical shocks.

An ICD looks similar to a pacemaker and is a little bigger than a match box. It is usually implanted under the collar bone. An ICD device is made up of a pulse generator - which is a battery powered electronic circuit - and one or more electrode leads. The leads are placed into the heart via a vein.

How does an ICD work?

An ICD constantly monitors the heart rhythm and if it senses a dangerous abnormal heart rhythm it can deliver one of the following treatments:

• Pacing to try and stop the abnormal heart rhythm.
• One or more small electrical shocks to stop the abnormal heart rhythm and restore the heart back to a normal rhythm.

Who needs an ICD?

ICD's are used for people who have had a previous life threatening abnormal heart rhythm and are at risk of another one.

They may also be used for people who have not had a life threatening abnormal heart rhythm before, but tests have shown that they are at risk of one in the future. This may include some people who have heart disease or some people with conditions such as Cardiomyopathy, Long QT syndrome or Brugada Syndrome.

However there are many people who have had an episode of a life threatening heart rhythm, during or just after a heart attack, who would not necessarily need to have an ICD.

How is an ICD fitted?

ICD's are inserted under local anaesthetic, but with sedation, so you will feel very sleepy. You will usually stay overnight in hospital and your ICD will be checked thoroughly before you leave.

Where can I get more information?

For more information on how an ICD is implanted and every day life with an ICD please download our booklet Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (pdf) or order a copy of our video/DVD The beat goes on.

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