Name of the Procedure:

Cardioverter-defibrillator, Single Chamber (Implantable)

Common Name(s): ICD, Single Chamber Defibrillator
Technical/Medical Term: Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD), Single Chamber

Summary

A single chamber implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a small device implanted in your chest to continuously monitor your heart rhythm and deliver a shock when an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) is detected. It helps prevent sudden cardiac death due to life-threatening arrhythmias.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Ventricular tachycardia
• Ventricular fibrillation

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• To prevent sudden cardiac death
• To correct life-threatening arrhythmias by delivering an electrical shock
• To provide continuous heart rhythm monitoring

Indications

Specific Symptoms/Conditions:

• History of cardiac arrest due to ventricular arrhythmias
• Individuals at high risk for sudden cardiac arrest (e.g., severe heart disease, genetically predisposed conditions)
• Certain heart failure patients

Patient Criteria:

• Adequate life expectancy
• Severe arrhythmia patients not controlled by medication

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Fasting (no food or drink) for at least 6 hours before the procedure
• Adjust certain medications as directed (e.g., anticoagulants)
• Complete necessary pre-operative tests (e.g., ECG, blood tests)
• Arrange for transportation post-procedure

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Anesthesia: Patient is given local anaesthesia and sedative medication to help relax.
2. Incision: A small incision is made near the collarbone.
3. Lead Insertion: A lead (thin flexible wire) is inserted through a vein into the heart's ventricle.
4. Device Placement: The ICD is connected to the lead and placed under the skin, usually on the left side of the chest.
5. Testing: The ICD is tested to ensure it can detect abnormal rhythms and deliver the correct therapy.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or surgical glue.

Tools/Equipment Used: ICD device, Leads, Fluoroscope for guiding leads

Duration

Typical Duration:

• The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Where Performed:

• Typically done in a hospital's catheterization lab or a surgical suite.

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals Involved:

• Cardiologist or Electrophysiologist (Performing the procedure)
• Nurse (Assists during procedure and handles post-operative care)
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist (Administers sedation)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection at the implant site
• Bleeding or bruising
• Lead dislodgement

Rare Complications:

• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Cardiac tamponade (accumulation of fluid around the heart)
• Device malfunction

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Reduced risk of sudden cardiac death
• Continuous heart monitoring
• Improvement in patient's life expectancy and quality of life

Realization Time: The benefits are typically realized immediately after the device is activated and confirmed to be working.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Hospital stay for observation (usually 1-2 days)
• Keep the incision site clean and dry
• Restrict heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks

Expected Recovery Time:

• Full recovery typically takes about 4-6 weeks.

Follow-Up:

• Regular follow-ups to monitor device function and battery life.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Medication management of arrhythmias
• Catheter ablation
• Dual or biventricular ICDs depending on the patient's condition

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Medication may not be effective for all patients and could have side effects.
• Catheter ablation is less invasive but may not be suitable for all types of arrhythmias.
• Dual or biventricular ICDs are more suitable for patients with more complex cardiac conditions.

Patient Experience

During Procedure:

• Minimal pain due to local anesthesia and sedation
• May feel pressure or mild discomfort

After Procedure:

• Mild to moderate soreness at the incision site
• Restrictions on arm movements and physical activities to allow healing
• Periodic sensations from the device if it activates

Pain Management:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended
• Prescription pain medication if needed for severe discomfort

Comfort measures include applying ice to the incision site and wearing loose clothing to avoid irritation.