What my patients need to know about Implantable cardiac defibrillators
ICD
Irina Staicu, MD
Heart Failure Part II
What my patients need to know about Implantable cardiac defibrillators ICD
Irina Staicu, MD
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator ICD
The ICD is a battery-powered device that can fix an abnormal heart rate or rhythm and prevent sudden death, by emitting a shock which restores the normal rhythm
The ICD is placed inside the chest. It's attached to one or two wires (called leads) that go into the heart through a vein.
The surgical implant is similar to a Pacemaker
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator ICD
HF with ejection fraction < 35%, is prone to developing fatal arrhythmia not otherwise predictable or preventable.
Everybody with Ejection Fraction < 35% should receive a ICD
Before Implant
My office will advice you
Hold blood thinners:
2 days for Eliquis, Xarelto or Pradaxa; Coumadin as per my office protocol, depending on your other cardiac conditions
Hold metformin for 2 days
The hospital will call you the night before regarding time of surgery
Heart Failure Part II What my patients need to know about Implantable cardiac defibrillators ICD Irina Staicu, MD
