Implant of Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)

Explanation of procedure

The aim of the implantable cardioverter defibrillatorICD is to look for, monitoridentify and if necessary, treat any life threatening heart rhythms. TheycanICDs also provide a range of treatments to correct abnormal heart rhythms including fast and slow electrical pacing for fast and slow heart rhythms and high energy defibrillatorion shocks. The procedure involves inserting wire(s)(also known as leads) into your heart through a vein just under your collar bone. This is done with the help of X-rays. The wire(s) are then connected to the defibrillatorICDbattery box. An incision is made (usually just below the collar bone, near where the vein that the wires are inserted into) and a space is formed just below the skin to make a `pocket’. The box is put into a pocket made under your skin in the same area. Theplaced into the pocket, which is then closed using surgical stitches. The doctor may test the defibrillatorICD during the procedure to ensure it is working correctly. This involves the delivery of 1 or more high energy shocks while you are sedated.

The intended benefits of this procedure To look foridentify and treat any abnormal fast or slow heart rhythms, should they occur.

Serious or frequently occurring risks:

Less than 1 in 100 risk of serious or life threatening complications such as:

  • blood clots which could cause a stroke or heart attack;
  • puncture of the blood vessels or heart wall which could lead to a collection of blood in the sac surrounding the heart and which could require an emergency operation to repair.

2 in 100 risk of bleeding or bruising around the wound site which may require a tight bandage overnight to control, removal of blood clots from around the box or removal of the entire system. This risk is increased if you are taking blood thinnersing medication.

2 in 100 risk of infection in or around the wound.

0-5 in 100 risk of a collapsed lung during the procedure.

5-10 in 100 risk of the wire(s) moving out of position requiring a further procedure to reposition the wire(s) at a later date.

Any extraAdditional procedures which may become necessary during or after the procedure

DC Cardioversion/defibraillation An electrical shock across the chest wall to restore a normal heart rhythm.

I have discussed what the procedure is likely to involve, the benefits and risks of any available alternative treatments (including no treatment) and any particular concerns of this patient.

□ Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) patient information leaflet and a wound care advice sheet has been given to you.

The procedure will involve:

□ General anaesthesia□ Local anaesthesia□ Sedation

V3 oct 2010