Pacemaker & Cardiac Defibrillator (ICD) Procedures
The Cardiology team at Lima Memorial has a long history of innovation and advanced care. In fact, in 2004, Lima Memorial Heart and Vascular Institute became the first cardiac center in the region to surgically place an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) in a patient.
What is a Cardiac Defibrillator (ICD)?
A Cardiac Defibrillator, or often just called an ICD, is a small electronic device installed inside the chest to prevent sudden death from cardiac arrest due to abnormally fast or erratic heart rhythms (tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, respectively).
The ICD monitors the heart rhythm. When the heart is beating normally, the device is inactive. If the heart develops a life- threatening tachycardia, the ICD delivers an electrical shock or shocks to the heart to return the heart rhythm to normal.
What is a Pacemaker?
Pacemakers are commonly used to correct an abnormally slow heartbeat by sending electrical impulses to one or more chambers of the heart. There are a variety of conditions that may call for pacing.
Pacemakers may be permanent or temporary. A permanent pacemaker is implanted into a patient’s chest during a minor surgical procedure. A short stay in the hospital may be required, and some patients may need to take medications afterward to help the heart maintain a normal rhythm.
Talk to a Physician about a Pacemaker or ICD
If you have questions about Cardiac Defibrillators (ICD) or Pacemakers, please contact Lima Memorial Heart and Vascular nstitute to learn more at 419-224-5915.
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