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Defibrillator, implantable cardiac: A device put within the body that is designed to recognize certain types of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and correct them.
Defibrillators continuously monitor the heart rhythm in order to detect rapid arrhythmias such as
These ventricular arrhythmias impair the pumping efficiency of the heart and greatly raise the risks of fainting (syncope) and sudden cardiac arrest. They tend to develop in people with coronary artery disease and heart muscle diseases (cardiomyopathies). They are life- threatening.
A defibrillator can be implanted within the body by far less invasive techniques than in the past because the devices, aside from being more technologically advanced, are smaller. (An implantable defibrillator is about the size of a minicassette).
The defibrillator corrects the heart rhythm by delivering precisely calibrated and timed electrical shocks, when needed, to restore a normal heartbeat.
Learn how implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) use electricity to control irregular heartbeats and prevent sudden cardiac arrest.
Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator Tutorial: The 15 most common questions answered about ICD's.
Welcome to the Patient Information Section of the Heart Rhythm Society’s website! If you or someone you know is at risk for a heart rhythm disorder or has just been ...
An ICD uses electrical pulses or shocks to help control life-threatening, irregular heartbeats, especially those that could cause sudden cardiac arrest.
... may reduce your risk of dying if your heart goes into a dangerous rhythm and stops beating (cardiac arrest). You may need an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator if you ...