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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Introduction to ICD in Cardiology
Introduction
An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) is a device designed to monitor and correct life-threatening heart rhythm abnormalities, particularly ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF) , which can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
How Does an ICD Work?
The ICD is implanted under the skin, usually below the collarbone. It continuously monitors the heart's activity and, if it detects a dangerous arrhythmia, it delivers treatments such as: - Anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP): Small, painless electrical impulses to stop an abnormal rhythm. - Cardioversion: A mild electric shock to restore normal rhythm. - Defibrillation: A stronger shock to stop potentially fatal arrhythmias.
Who Needs an ICD?
ICDs are recommended for individuals at high risk of sudden cardiac death due to conditions such as: - Previous cardiac arrest or life-threatening arrhythmias - Severe heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (EF ≤35%) - Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with arrhythmic risk - Certain genetic conditions predisposing to sudden cardiac death (e.g., Long QT Syndrome, Brugada Syndrome)
Risks and Benefits
Benefits:
- Life-saving potential by preventing sudden cardiac arrest.
- Evidence-based therapy backed by numerous clinical trials.
- Improved quality of life for high-risk patients.
Risks:
- Inappropriate shocks due to false detections.
- Infection or complications related to implantation.
- Battery depletion requiring replacement every 5-10 years.
ICD and Daily Life
Patients with an ICD can generally return to normal activities but should: - Avoid strong electromagnetic fields. - Inform healthcare providers about the ICD before medical procedures. - Have regular follow-up visits for ICD function monitoring.
Conclusion
ICDs play a crucial role in preventing sudden cardiac death in high-risk patients. If you or a loved one has been recommended an ICD, discussing the benefits and potential risks with a specialist is essential.
Source recommendations
1. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/Heart Rhythm Society Guidelines for Management of Patients with Ventricular Arrhythmias and the Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29097320/
- https://www.heartrhythmjournal.com/article/S1547-5271(17)31249-3/fulltext
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/
- https://www.hrsonline.org/guidance/clinical-resources/2017-ahaacchrs-guideline-management-patients-ventricular-arrhythmias-and-prevention-sudden-cardiac
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for Management of Patients with Ventricular Arrhythmias and the Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26320108/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.