inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf

inspiring canadians to live better.

healthing leaf
get healthing in your inbox with the morning checkup and weekender newsletter!

top of the page

implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (icd)

an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (icd) is a small device that uses electrical pulses or shocks to help control abnormal heart rhythms, especially ones that can be life-threatening. an icd is also known as an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (aicd).

an icd is implanted under the skin in the chest. it's attached to one or two wires (called leads). with some icds, these leads go into the heart through a vein. other icds have a lead that is placed under the skin so that it lies near your heart.

an icd is always checking your heart for a life-threatening rapid heart rhythm. the icd may try to slow the rhythm back to normal using electrical pulses. if the dangerous rhythm does not stop, the icd sends an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. the device then goes back to its watchful mode. if your heart is beating too slowly, some icds can act as a pacemaker and send mild electrical pulses to bring your heart rate back up to normal.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

advertisement