Defibrillators

About 800,000 people in the United States have implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs). At Pinnacle Healthcare System in Hollywood and Pembroke Pines, Florida, skilled specialists implant these medical devices to stop irregular heartbeats and avoid complications. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking a visit online today.

What are defibrillators?

A defibrillator, also called an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator or ICD, is an implantable, battery-powered device your specialist implants into your chest to detect and stop irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). The device constantly assesses your heartbeat and delivers electric shocks to restore normal beats whenever necessary. 

Who may benefit from defibrillators?

You may be a candidate for a defibrillator if you experience:

• Fast heartbeat
• High risk of dangerous irregular heartbeats
• Weak heart muscle
• Previous heart attack
• High risk of sudden cardiac arrest
• Fainting
• History of coronary artery disease
• Enlarged heart muscle
• Genetic heart conditions linked to fast heartbeat

This device can also help if you have a cardiac arrest (loss of all heart activity). To determine if this implantable device is right for you, the Pinnacle Healthcare System experts discuss your medical history, check your vital signs, complete a physical exam, and order heart function, lab, imaging, or other diagnostic tests.

How should I prepare for defibrillator implantation?

Follow your provider’s instructions to prepare to receive your defibrillator. They may ask you to avoid food and drink before your scheduled appointment, avoid certain medications, and make arrangements to have a family member or friend drive you home afterward.

What happens during defibrillator implantation procedures?

You will receive an IV in your hand or forearm before the procedure and a sedative to help you relax (or medication that helps you fall asleep). 

Your specialist also places electrodes on your chest and sometimes your legs. They make a tiny incision in the skin of your chest area and insert wires into a blood vessel, guiding them to your heart. The other ends of the wires attach to a shock generator placed under the skin by your collarbone. 

Surgery often lasts a few hours. Your surgeon tests and programs the device based on your individualized heart rhythm needs.

What can I expect afterward?

You can usually head home the day after a defibrillator implantation procedure. The incision site may be tender or swollen for a few days or weeks. 

Follow your post-procedure instructions so you know which medications to take. Limit driving and physical activity until given the OK, and call the Pinnacle Healthcare System office anytime with concerns or questions. You can complete additional minor surgery when the ICD battery is close to running out of power (often after 5-7 years).

Schedule an evaluation at Pinnacle Healthcare System by phone or request one online today to learn more about defibrillators and if you’re a candidate for implantation.