For what it is used
Physicians use ICD to prevent sudden death caused by certain types of cardiac arrhythmias. Your doctor may recommend an ICD in the following situations:
- If you survived an episode of ventricular fibrillation-threatening.
- If you have had episodes of abnormally fast heartbeat (ventricular tachycardia).
- If you have an enlarged heart resulting from a heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy and syncope (unexplained).
- If you have coronary artery disease, your heart pumps a small amount of blood and has a high risk of having an abnormally high heartbeat (ventricular tachycardia).
- If you have a genetic (inherited) of heart disease that can cause sudden death (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy), even in young people.
Preparation
Your doctor will review your medical history and allergies. He or she will ask for a list of your current medications. If you take medication to prevent blood clots (anticoagulants), your doctor will tell you when to stop taking them. He or she will also give you instructions on when to stop eating and drinking before the procedure.
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