ICD Surgery

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs)

You may have seen TV shows in which a hospital worker or paramedic "shocks" an unconscious person out of cardiac arrest with a pair of electrified paddles. An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) does the same thing, only internally and automatically when it detects that your heartbeat is abnormal.

An ICD is surgically placed under your skin, usually below your left collarbone. One or two flexible, insulated wires (leads) run from the ICD through your veins to the lower chambers of your heart.

Because the ICD constantly monitors for abnormal heart rhythms and instantly attempts to correct them, it helps treat cardiac arrest, even if you're hours away from the nearest hospital.

Retrieved from the Mayo Clinic Website 

On September 3rd, I had an ICD implanted. My EF was approximately 22%. I am at risk for sudden death. I like to think that I'm not dying but can die at any moment. This device will deliver a shock to my heart and keep me alive once an arrhythmia is detected. It was a lot to process but I'm glad "Sparky" is here!

My before pic: Ready to get it over with!

Dr. Seide hooked me up! Small incision on left breast. He put it behind some muscle and my ICD is not pertruding out of my skin and is not noticeable. Very happy with Sparky!

I'm so happy it was over. Not feeling great, but it could be worse! My mom was too excited. Lots of sleep to come. Can't lift my left arm for a while so that's why I have the sling.