An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is an advanced electronic device that detects and treats life-threatening heart rhythm disorders. ICD is the most effective treatment method for preventing sudden cardiac death.
What is an ICD?#
An ICD is a device that continuously monitors the heart’s electrical activity and automatically delivers treatment when it detects dangerous rhythm disorders. In addition to pacemaker functions, it has the ability to deliver shocks.
ICD Treatment Methods:
- Antitachycardia pacing (ATP): Terminating tachycardia with rapid pacing
- Cardioversion: Low-energy shock
- Defibrillation: High-energy shock (in ventricular fibrillation)
- Bradycardia pacing: Stimulation for slow heart rate
Who Needs an ICD?#
Primary Prevention (No Event Yet)#
- Low ejection fraction (EF ≤35%)
- Ischemic or non-ischemic cardiomyopathy
- Low EF despite optimal medical therapy
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (high risk)
- Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
- Long QT syndrome
- Brugada syndrome
Secondary Prevention (Event Occurred)#
- After ventricular fibrillation
- VT causing hemodynamic instability
- Unexplained syncope + inducible VT
Types of ICD#
Transvenous ICD#
- Traditional method
- Electrodes placed in heart via blood vessels
- Can be single or dual chamber
- CRT-D (CRT with defibrillator) option
Subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD)#
- Electrode placed under the skin
- Does not enter blood vessels
- Lower infection risk
- Limited pacing function
How is ICD Implantation Performed?#
Pre-Procedure Evaluation#
- Echocardiography
- Electrophysiology study (in some cases)
- Coronary angiography (if needed)
- Blood tests
- Anticoagulant adjustment
Procedure Steps#
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia + sedation
- Pocket creation: Under chest skin
- Electrode placement: Under fluoroscopy guidance
- Defibrillation testing: Verification that device works
- Generator connection: Connecting electrodes to device
- Closure: Skin closed with sutures
Procedure Duration#
ICD implantation usually takes 1-2 hours.
ICD Shock#
An ICD shock is the electrical treatment the device delivers when it detects a dangerous rhythm.
Shock Sensation:
- Sudden, strong impact feeling
- Lasts a few seconds
- Usually effective and life-saving
After Shock:
- Stay calm
- Inform your doctor
- Call emergency services if needed
Inappropriate Shocks:
- Sometimes shocks may be delivered due to false detection
- Can be minimized with programming
- Report to your doctor
Living with an ICD#
You can lead a normal life with an ICD:
What You Can Do:
- Daily activities
- Light to moderate exercise
- Travel
- Sexual activity
- Most jobs
Things to Consider:
- Avoid strong magnetic fields
- Driving restrictions (after shock)
- Inform before certain medical procedures
- Regular check-ups
ICD Risks#
Procedure risks:
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Infection
- Pneumothorax
- Electrode dislocation
- Inappropriate shocks
- Device malfunction (rare)
Frequently Asked Questions#
Is an ICD shock painful?
Can I drive with an ICD?
How long does an ICD battery last?
Can I have an MRI with an ICD?
What if the ICD doesn't deliver a shock?
Appointment and Contact#
If you would like to schedule an appointment for ICD evaluation or implantation:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)
This content has been prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Çil for general informational purposes. Please consult a cardiology specialist for definitive diagnosis and treatment.
Related Arrhythmia Treatments#
Other arrhythmia treatments related to ICD:
- Ablation - Catheter ablation
- Biventricular Pacemaker - CRT-D pacemaker
- Permanent Pacemaker - Bradycardia treatment
- Electrophysiology Study - Arrhythmia diagnosis
- Heart Failure - Heart failure treatment