An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a small, battery-powered medical device that continuously monitors your heart rhythm and intervenes when it detects life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF).
Implanted beneath the skin, the device is connected to the heart via thin insulated leads, which monitor electrical activity and deliver corrective shocks or pacing when needed to restore a normal heartbeat and reduce the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
An ICD is a specialised device designed to detect and correct dangerous heart rhythm problems. Many ICDs also incorporate pacemaker functions to manage slow heartbeats.
During a minor surgical procedure, the device is implanted under the skin of the chest, usually near the collarbone. The pulse generator—about the size of a small handheld device—contains a battery and electronic circuits that interpret your heart’s electrical signals. Thin leads are guided through veins into the heart chambers, where they both monitor the rhythm and deliver corrective shocks if necessary.
A variation called a subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD) places the lead(s) under the skin along the chest wall rather than inside the heart or veins. S-ICDs are primarily designed to deliver shocks and do not provide pacing for bradycardia or antitachycardia pacing (ATP).
ICD benefits include:
ICD implantation is recommended for patients at high risk of sudden cardiac arrest or severe abnormal heart rhythms. Typical indications include:
An ICD is recommended when the potential risk of a life-threatening arrhythmia outweighs alternative treatment options.
ICD implantation is usually minimally invasive, performed under local anaesthesia with sedation. Most patients remain awake but comfortable throughout the procedure.
Preparation
Lead Placement
Device Placement
Testing
Closure
The procedure typically lasts 1–2 hours, and most patients are discharged within 24–48 hours, depending on individual recovery.
Although uncommon, potential complications include:
Your cardiologist will review these risks and determine whether you are a suitable candidate for implantation.
Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within a few weeks.
Expect:
Precautions:
Exercise: Light activities and walking are encouraged; avoid strenuous upper-body workouts until cleared by your doctor.
ICD shocks: Receiving a shock means the device corrected a dangerous rhythm. Occasional shocks may be normal; repeated shocks require immediate medical attention.
BM Birla Heart Research Centre is a leading cardiac care hospital in Eastern India, specialising in cardiac rhythm management.
Key advantages:
The ICD provides long-term therapy, though the generator may need replacement after several years.
Most ICD batteries last 5–7 years, depending on therapy usage.
Yes, most patients return to regular routines with minor precautions and regular follow-up.
Avoid strong magnets, high-voltage equipment, and heavy lifting with the arm on the implant side until cleared by your doctor.
No, it does not cure arrhythmias but prevents life-threatening episodes by correcting them instantly.
Yes. Inform security staff, carry your ICD ID card, and be prepared for manual screening.
A pacemaker treats slow heart rhythms, while an ICD corrects life-threatening fast rhythms and can deliver life-saving shocks.
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