The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a device used to treat dangerously fast heart rates that occur in the lower chambers of the heart (the main pumping chambers). The ICD system looks much like a pacemaker. The device is implanted under the skin and attached to one or more leads, which are placed in or on the heart muscle.
Illustration: ICD implantation. Image of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implanted in heart. The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) detects arrhythmias (both bradyarrhythmia and tachyarrhythmia) and delivers electrical therapy (pacing pulses or defibrillation therapy) as necessary. When not needed, the ICD merely monitors the heart without delivering any electrical energy. Click on the heart to see an enlarged view.
credit is due: SJM.com
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