Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, or ICD, is a small device placed under the skin to monitor heart rhythm. It can deliver electrical therapy when it detects certain dangerous fast heart rhythms. The device may use leads placed in or near the heart, depending on the ICD type. ICDs are used to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death in selected patients.
read more about implantable cardioverterdefibrillator ...An ICD is used for people at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. It may be recommended after certain cardiac arrests, in some forms of heart failure, or in inherited rhythm disorders. The device watches the heartbeat continuously and responds when a dangerous rhythm is detected. It does not prevent every heart problem and does not replace regular cardiac care.
The ICD senses electrical activity from the heart through its leads or sensing system. If it detects an abnormal rhythm, it may deliver pacing pulses, cardioversion, or a stronger defibrillation shock. Some ICDs also provide pacing for slow rhythms. The device stores rhythm data that clinicians can review during follow-up visits or remote monitoring.
A transvenous ICD has leads that travel through veins into the heart. A subcutaneous ICD has a lead placed under the skin rather than inside the heart and is used for selected patients. Some devices combine ICD therapy with cardiac resynchronization therapy for certain heart failure patients. The type chosen depends on rhythm risk, pacing needs, anatomy, and clinician recommendation.
Possible risks include infection, bleeding, lead movement, inappropriate shocks, device malfunction, pain, collapsed lung, or need for replacement when the battery runs low. Patients need regular device checks and should tell healthcare providers about the ICD before procedures or imaging. Strong magnets and some equipment can interfere with device function. Repeated shocks, fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, or wound drainage should be reported promptly.
No. A pacemaker mainly treats slow heart rhythms, while an ICD can deliver shocks for dangerous fast rhythms. Some ICDs also have pacing features.
Yes. A defibrillation shock can feel sudden and strong. Lower-energy pacing therapy may not be felt.
Battery life varies by model and how often therapy is delivered. The device is checked regularly so replacement can be planned before the battery is depleted.
Usually yes, but phones and magnets should be kept a safe distance from the device according to manufacturer and clinician instructions.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17123-implantable-cardioverter-defibrillator-icd. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/implantable-cardioverter-defibrillators/about/pac-20384692. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007370.htm. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.
Implantable cardioverter defibrillator: Discharge. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000108.htm. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.
Pacemakers and Implantable Defibrillators. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/pacemakersandimplantabledefibrillators.html. Date Accessed June 18, 2026.