The Aurora EV-ICD™ system is a first-of-its-kind extravascular implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).
Learn more about this unique device that is capable of treating sudden cardiac arrest and abnormal heartbeats with defibrillation and special pacing therapy.
What is the Aurora EV-ICD™ system?
Most ICDs are implanted in the upper left chest, with the leads running through the veins into the heart. But the Aurora EV-ICD™ system is positioned differently. It is called an ”extravascular” system because the lead is placed below the breastbone, and the defibrillator is implanted below the left armpit. This design helps the Aurora EV-ICD™ system avoid certain risks of traditional transvenous ICDs.
If you have been denied coverage of the Aurora EV-ICD™ procedure by your health insurance, the sample letter at the link below may help you in appealing that decision.
How does the Aurora EV-ICD™ system work?
The Aurora EV-ICD™ system monitors a patient’s heartbeat 24 hours a day. If the heart is beating too fast or is not beating regularly, the device can first send small electrical signals to correct the heart rate. This special type of “pacing the heart” is called antitachycardia pacing (ATP). If the fast heartbeat continues, the device then sends an electric shock to reset the normal heartbeat.
Features and benefits1
Protecting your heart while you live your life
- Comfortable and less visible — With its small size, rounded edges, and placement under the arm, the Aurora EV-ICD™ system may be less visible and more comfortable than other extravascular ICDs that are currently available.
- Projected longevity — Aurora EV-ICD™ system is projected to last more than 10 years. This means that people with the Aurora EV-ICD™ system can likely live with the device for more than a decade without needing to get it replaced due to its battery. Projected battery longevity estimates are based on accelerated testing and device modeling. Results for individual patients vary based on program settings.
- Proven and safe technology — The performance, safety, and effectiveness of the Medtronic EV-ICD™ system has been studied in five clinical studies with more than 400 patients.2
- Special pacing therapy — The Aurora EV-ICD™ system is the only extravascular ICD to offer ATP. That means if your heart is beating too fast or abnormally, the Aurora EV-ICD™ system can send small electrical signals to correct your heartbeat before delivering a shock.
Risks for Aurora EV-ICD™: Lead dislodgement, surgical complications, infection, failure to deliver therapy when it is needed, and/or receiving extra therapy when it is not needed.
Living with the Aurora EV-ICD™ system
Watch stories of real people who are living with the Aurora EV-ICD™ system.
Not every person will receive the same results as the people below. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
Tim’s story
It’s something that I hardly notice in my day-to-day life.”— Tim, living with the Aurora EV-ICD™ system
Cheryl’s story
It allows me to live confidently.”— Cheryl, living with the Medtronic EV-ICD™ system
Harrison’s story
I feel protected if I ever need it.”— Harrison, living with the Medtronic EV-ICD™ system
Talk to your doctor to see if the Aurora EV-ICD™ system is right for you.
Talk to your doctor about what a normal life looks like to you. Share any concerns, questions, and discuss what activities are important for you to be able to do after getting an ICD. Then discuss which ICD is right for you.
Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.
