Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD): Protection Against Life-Threatening Arrhythmias

At Subang Jaya Medical Centre's Heart, Vascular, and Thoracic Department, we offer advanced treatment options to address life-threatening arrhythmias and protect patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. One of the key procedures we perform is the implantation of an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD), a device designed to monitor heart rhythm and deliver life-saving therapies when abnormal rhythms are detected.

An Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) is a small device surgically placed under the skin, usually in the chest area. It continuously monitors your heart's electrical activity and is programmed to deliver an electric shock when dangerous arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, are detected. This shock restores normal heart rhythm and prevents sudden cardiac arrest.

1. Preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest: An ICD provides protection against life-threatening arrhythmias that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. By continuously monitoring your heart's rhythm, the device can detect abnormal patterns and deliver a shock to restore normal rhythm, potentially saving your life.

2. Personalized Programming: ICDs are highly customisable to meet each patient's needs. Our cardiologists program the device based on your risk factors, medical history, and the type of arrhythmias you are prone to. This ensures that the device provides the appropriate therapy when needed and minimises unnecessary interventions.

3. Monitoring and Data Recording: ICDs deliver therapy and provide valuable data on your heart's electrical activity. This data is regularly reviewed by our cardiologists during follow-up visits, helping to assess the effectiveness of the device, adjust therapy settings if necessary, and provide insights into your heart's condition.