Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators
While many people might be most familiar with the external
defibrillators seen on TV, in emergency rooms or at sporting
events, there are similar devices that, although less obvious in
their use, serve the same purpose of restoring proper heart
rhythms and thus averting possible death by cardiac arrest or
heart attack. They are called implantable cardioverter
defibrillators but are often referred to as pacemakers.
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator is a device designed
for individuals with certain forms of heart disease of defects
that put them at recurring risk of sustained ventricular
fibrillation, or cardiac arrest. The device is implanted either
within the chest itself, or more commonly today within the blood
vessels thus eliminating the need for dangerous open chest
surgery.
Once inside the body, an implantable defibrillator, or ICD, uses
leads positioned near the heart to deliver electronic pulses or
shocks when the device senses a cardiac rhythm that is out of
sync. This arrhythmia or fibrillation can lead to cardiac arrest
by constricting blood flow to the heart. The device can also, if
necessary, stimulate a consistent pace or beat if the heart is
unable to do so on its own.
Internal defibrillators are only used in cases where a patient
has shown consistent, recurring risk of cardiac arrest or attack
do to fibrillation. As with any invasive surgery, an ICD is not
to be taken lightly, but they have been extraordinarily useful
in preventing sudden deaths among patients who elect to have
them implanted.
If you are wondering if you are a candidate for an ICD, contact
your regular medical practitioner or heart specialist. Only they
can determine whether you are in need of an internal
defibrillator, but if you have been found to be at recurring
risk for rhythm problems such as ventricular tachycardia (when
the heart beats at a dangerously fast pace) or ventricular
fibrillation (when the heartbeat is both fast and irregular), an
ICD may be a viable option.
Patients who have ICDs implanted often say that the delivery of
pacing therapy by the device is a painless experience. Most do
not experience discomfort or pain, while some may feel a mild
fluttering in the chest. If cardioversion therapy is needed, a
mild shock is sent that is said to resemble a thump in the
chest. The defibrillator shock, sent to resolve cardiac
fibrillation or irregular pacing, is the heaviest jolt and is
often said to resemble a swift kick in the chest. There may be
some discomfort but the sensation typically only lasts a few
moments.
Once you have an internal defibrillator implanted, certain
lifestyle adjustments will be necessary. Like after any surgery,
your doctor will advise you to limit any strenuous or stressful
activities for a certain period of time. But in most cases, you
can return to a normal routine after a few short weeks. Though,
patients will need to be aware of any machines capable of
interfering with the ICD