Understanding Defibrillator Implant Surgery

 

My husband suffered a COVID-related heart attack with no blockage. After a year of doctors not knowing what was going on, testing him for unrelated conditions, they diagnosed him with COVID induced myocarditis, with his heart function at 20%. He was prescribed a beta blocker, but his heart did not improve. He wore a life vest  and the results led his cardiologist to suggest a life-saving implant.

So here I am, researching with AI to learn more and sharing the verified information I find with all of you.

For those interested in learning more about defibrillator implant surgery, you can find detailed and reliable information from the Mayo Clinic here: Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICDs) - Mayo Clinic.

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) surgery is a life-saving procedure designed to protect patients from dangerous heart rhythms. This teaching blog breaks down the essentials: what the surgery involves, how to prepare, and what to expect afterward.

 

What the Surgery Involves

• Purpose: An ICD monitors heart rhythm and delivers shocks or pacing to correct arrhythmias like ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation.
• Procedure:
• A small incision is made near the collarbone.
• Thin wires (leads) are threaded through a vein into the heart.
• The ICD device (about the size of a stopwatch) is placed under the skin and connected to the leads.
• The device is tested and programmed to the patient’s specific needs.
• Duration: Typically, 1–2 hours. Most patients are awake with sedation and local anesthesia, though general anesthesia may be used.

 

 Preparing for Surgery

• Tests beforehand: ECG, echocardiogram, Holter monitoring, or electrophysiology studies.
• Fasting: No food or drink for several hours before surgery.
• Medications:
• Blood thinners may be paused to reduce bleeding risk.
• Antibiotics may be given to prevent infection.
• Logistics: Arrange for transportation home and support during recovery.
• Advance planning: Share all medications, allergies, and health conditions with the care team. Consider preparing an advance directive.

 

What to Expect After Surgery

• Hospital stays: Usually overnight for monitoring. Chest X-ray and ECG confirm device placement.
• Pain & swelling: Mild soreness or bruising at the incision site for 1–2 weeks.
• Activity restrictions:
• Avoid lifting the arm above shoulder level on the implant side for 4–6 weeks.
• No heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or contact sports during early recovery.
• Follow-up: Device checks within 6 weeks, then every 6 months. Remote monitoring may be used.
• Living with an ICD:
• Carry an ICD ID card for emergencies.
• Avoid strong magnets and certain electrical fields.
• Cellphones are safe but should be kept at least 6 inches from the device site.
• Shocks:
• Low-energy pacing may feel like a flutter.
• High-energy shocks can feel like a “kick in the chest” but last only seconds.

 

 Risks (though uncommon)

• Infection at the implant site
• Bleeding or bruising
• Collapsed lung (rare)
• Lead displacement requiring repositioning
• Device malfunction

 

✅ Key Takeaways

• Preparation: Follow fasting and medication instructions carefully.
• Support: Plan for transportation and home help.
• Recovery: Expect soreness, limit arm movement, and attend follow-ups.
• Long-term: The ICD provides life-saving protection and requires routine monitoring.

 

This teaching blog post is designed to help patients and caregivers understand ICD surgery in clear, accessible steps. With preparation and awareness, the journey through surgery and recovery can feel less overwhelming and more empowering.