What is a Defibrillator Implantation?

A defibrillator implantation is a surgical procedure to insert a cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) into a patient's abdomen or chest. The ICD is a small, implantable device that works to correct irregular heartbeats. Also, if the heart suddenly stops beating, it will send out an electrical pulse to get the organ working again.

Patients who undergo a defibrillator implantation suffer from a heart condition. Those who have had cardiac arrest, coronary artery disease, or ventricular tachycardia, also called a fast heartbeat, may be candidates for an ICD. It can also be helpful for people with enlarged or thickened heart muscle, or those with an inherited condition that causes abnormal rhythms.

To prepare for a defibrillator implantation, the doctor will likely run several tests to evaluate the heart's function. Patients may need to wear a monitor for a couple of days. The surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding discontinuing any medications prior to the procedure. Typically, patients will be told not to consume food or liquids for at least eight hours before surgery.

The defibrillator implantation itself is a relatively simple procedure. It often takes no longer than three hours, and can last as little as one hour. In most cases, the patient will be given a sedative and numbing medication. Those who are worried or anxious about the surgery may ask for general anesthesia, which will render the patient unconscious.

After an incision is made over the collarbone, the surgeon will insert a wire into a large vein. It is then guided to the heart, where it is attached to the organ. The device itself is usually placed underneath the collarbone, connected to the wire.

Following the defibrillator implantation, the surgeon will need to test the device to ensure that it meets the patient's needs. People who were awake during the procedure are given a general anesthesia for the testing. To program the device properly, the surgeon will need to shock the heart.