Complex cardiac device therapy 1: implantable cardioverter defibrillators

An overview of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) and how they work to terminate ventricular arrhythmias

Abstract

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators are devices implanted in a patient’s chest with the ability to terminate ventricular arrhythmias. Termination of these ventricular arrhythmias is vital to reduce the patient’s risk of sudden cardiac death. For the device to terminate the arrhythmia, accurate detection and diagnosis of a ventricular arrhythmia is to be made. The defibrillator is then able to terminate the arrhythmia through the use of two specific therapies: anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) or defibrillation (shock).

Citation: Coombes D (2023) Complex cardiac device therapy 1: implantable cardioverter defibrillators. Nursing Times [online]; 119: 7.

Author: Darren Coombes is cardiology lecturer, Swansea University.