Kardiowerterdefibrylator

Kardiowerterdefibrylator, often abbreviated as ICD (Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator), is a small electronic device implanted in the body to treat serious heart rhythm disturbances. Its primary function is to monitor the heart's electrical activity and deliver electrical shocks when a life-threatening arrhythmia, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, is detected. This shock aims to reset the heart rhythm to a normal rate and rhythm, preventing sudden cardiac arrest.

The ICD is surgically placed, typically under the skin in the chest area, and connected to the heart via one or more leads that extend through blood vessels to the heart chambers. These leads sense the heart's electrical signals and transmit them to the device. If an abnormal rhythm is identified, the ICD can deliver a low-energy pacing pulse to correct a fast heart rhythm or a higher-energy shock for more dangerous arrhythmias.

Beyond defibrillation, some ICDs also offer pacemaker functionality, meaning they can also pace the heart if it beats too slowly. This dual capability makes them valuable for patients with a combination of bradycardia (slow heart rate) and a risk of tachyarrhythmias (fast heart rhythm). The decision to implant an ICD is usually made for individuals who have survived a cardiac arrest, have certain types of heart failure, or have a high risk of developing dangerous heart rhythms due to underlying heart conditions. Regular follow-up appointments with a cardiologist are necessary to ensure the device is functioning correctly and to check its battery life.