What is a Internal Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)?
An Internal Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) is a device which is implanted into the chest of some heart patients to monitor and treat abnormal heart rhythms. These devices may also be used as pacemakers, but this is not their sole function. The implantation of an ICD is only considered when it is clear that a patient may be in need of it, and the risks and benefits of the procedure are always carefully discussed with the patient before moving forward.
Related Questions
- Some heart failure patients may need an additional device called an internal cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), which prevents cardiac arrest in a person at high risk for the condition. How Do I Prepare for the Biventricular Pacemaker Implant Procedure?
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