The surgical procedure varies based on the type of ICD being implanted.
Since the extravascular ICD and the lead are placed in different locations within the body compared to the transvenous ICDs, the implant procedure steps are different.
What happens during an ICD procedure?1
The procedure to implant an ICD is simpler and less invasive than open-heart surgery, and most people go home within 24 hours. Before the surgery, medication may be given to make you sleepy and comfortable.
General steps of an Aurora EV-ICD™ system implant procedure:
- A small incision (about 1 inch) will be made just below the tip of your breastbone / sternum.
- Approximately one-half of the length of a lead will be guided under the breastbone and positioned over the heart.
- A second small incision will be made under your left armpit. Then, the other half of the lead will be guided across your chest, over your rib cage to the incision under your left armpit.
- The defibrillator will be inserted beneath your skin under your left armpit and connected to the lead.
- The defibrillator settings will be programmed, and the device will be tested to ensure it is working properly to meet your medical needs. The incisions below your breastbone and under your arm will be closed.
General steps of a transvenous ICD implant procedure:
- A small incision, approximately two to four inches long, will be made in your upper chest area, just below your collarbone.
- One or two leads will be guided through a vein into your heart, and the leads will be connected to the implantable defibrillator.
- The defibrillator settings will be programmed, and the device will be tested to ensure it is working properly to meet your medical needs.
- The defibrillator will be inserted beneath your skin, and the incision in your chest will be closed.
Understand an ICD procedure.1
The surgery itself usually takes only a few hours, though a recovery period afterward, both in the hospital and at home, is required.
Is implant surgery painful?
Sedation/anesthesia are used during procedures, so it’s unlikely that a person will feel or even remember the operation.
Talk to your doctor about specific procedure preparation.
Your doctor will provide details regarding your procedure and how to prepare. Be sure to tell them about any medication you take, and be sure to go over your general health with your doctor, especially anything new that you may not have told your doctor about previously.
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.
