ICD

An ICD (Internal Cardioversion Device)

An ICD is usually implanted subcutaneously

The information stored in the ICD's memory can be read out using a coil that is put on the patients clothing near the ICD. Stored information includes battery life remaining and ICD shocks

ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator ): this device can detect and treat Ventricular Tachycardia and Ventricular Fibrillation. Usually the first treatment is anti-tachy pacing (pacing at a rate +- 10% above the ventricular rate in ventricular tachycardia, which can convert the rhythm to sinus rhythm). If this is not effective an defibrillator shock is delivered, usually with 16-36 Joules of energy. ICDs can save lives in patients who have a high risk of ventricular arrhythmias. All ICDs have optional pacemaker activity to treat bradycardias. New biventricular ICDs have 3 leads: an atrial lead, a left ventricular lead and a right ventricular lead.[1][2]

A short history of ICD therapy

• 1849 First graphical registration of VF[3]
• 1899 First documented defibrillation of a dog with ventricular fibrillation (VF) in dogs.[4]
• 1947 The thoracic surgeon Claude Beck saved the first human life by the successful use of cardiac defibrillation in a 14-year-old boy who developed VF during a thoracic surgical procedure and went on to achieve a full recovery.[5]
• 1973 Concept of implantable ICD[6]
• 1980 First human implantation of an ICD[7]

References

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1. Passman, Kadish. Circulation. 2007;116:561-571.

3. Hoffa M,Ludwig C., Ztschrft Rat Med 1850; 9:107

4. Prevost J, Batelli F. La mort par les courants electriques: courant alternative a bas voltage. J Physiol Path Gen. 1899; 1: 399–412.

5. Beck C, Pritchard W, Heil H. Ventricular fibrillation of long duration abolished by electric shock. JAMA. 1947; 135: 985–986.