Name of the Procedure:

Removal of Implantable Defibrillator Pulse Generator Only Common name(s): Defibrillator generator removal, ICD generator replacement

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of the pulse generator component of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), a device that helps regulate heart rhythms.

Purpose

The procedure addresses problems such as device malfunction, infection, or battery depletion. The goal is to remove the faulty generator while preserving the leads, ensuring the patient’s defibrillator system can continue to monitor and correct potentially dangerous heart rhythms after a new generator is implanted.

Indications

• Device malfunction or failure
• End-of-life battery depletion
• Infection at the ICD site
• Upgrades to a new model due to technological advancements

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments, especially blood thinners, might be necessary.
• Pre-procedural assessments could include an EKG, blood tests, and imaging studies.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given local anesthesia or light sedation.
2. An incision is made near the site of the existing ICD.
3. The existing pulse generator is carefully disconnected from the leads.
4. The leads are assessed to ensure they are in good condition for use with a new generator.
5. The incision is closed with sutures or staples.
6. A sterile dressing is applied over the incision site.

Tools used include scalpels, lead disconnect tools, and suturing materials.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

The procedure is usually done in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Cardiologist or cardiac surgeon
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Radiologic technologist (if imaging is needed)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Damage to the surrounding tissue or leads
• Anesthesia-related complications
• Rarely, pneumothorax (collapsed lung)

Benefits

• Removal of a malfunctioning or infected generator which improves safety.
• Can allow for immediate replacement with a new, fully functional ICD.
• Ensures continued protection against life-threatening arrhythmias.

Recovery

• Patients typically recover quickly, with discharge possible the same day or the following day.
• Mild discomfort or swelling can be managed with pain medications.
• Patients should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few weeks.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor recovery and device function.

Alternatives

• Complete removal and replacement of the entire ICD system, including leads.
• Pharmacological management of heart rhythm problems, though less effective for certain conditions.
• External defibrillator use, which is less practical for daily life.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel a mild discomfort from the incision but should not experience significant pain due to local anesthesia. Post-procedure, there might be some soreness and restricted movement in the area, but these symptoms usually improve within a few days. Pain management plans are typically provided to enhance comfort during recovery.