Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

The ICD is implanted in the catheterization laboratory. Sedation is given through an intravenous line and sometimes the cardiologist will choose to have anesthesia put you to sleep during the procedure; if not, the nurses will provide sedation. The chest wall is numbed with a local anesthetic. A wire is threaded into a vein that leads to the heart and one, two, or three wires will be implanted. These wires are connected to a generator, which is implanted under the skin to the upper chest wall. The device is tested during the procedure and then the incision is closed with suture/staples. You will be taken to the recovery room and once you are awake you will be taken to a room where you will be monitored overnight.