Pacemakers and ICDs: How They Work and What to Expect

Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are medical devices that can correct an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia).

Our experts at Chinatown Cardiology, with four New York City locations, can place a pacemaker or ICD if other therapies fail to regulate your heartbeat. We also offer ongoing care to ensure your device works properly.

Here, we break down how an ICD and a pacemaker are similar and different.

Understanding pacemakers and ICDs

A pacemaker is a battery-powered device that delivers electrical impulses to your heart to keep it beating properly. The currents of electricity stimulate your heart’s muscles, causing them to contract to keep blood flowing throughout your body.

An ICD is also a battery-powered device that monitors your heart rate. This device delivers an electric shock to the heart when it detects an irregular rhythm.

Pacemakers use low levels of energy to keep your heart beating at a steady rhythm. An ICD can deliver a stronger electric shock if an irregular heart rate increases your risk of a life-threatening cardiac event, such as a heart attack.

What to expect when getting a pacemaker or ICD

Getting a pacemaker or ICD involves surgery to implant the device. Expect to spend at least one night in the hospital for observation.

Pacemaker surgery requires small incisions to insert lead wires into your heart and attach to the pacemaker generator. We typically place the generator just under the surface of the skin near your collarbone.

During ICD implantation surgery, we follow a similar protocol to place the ICD generator and attach the lead wires to your heart. However, ICD surgery generally takes longer than pacemaker surgery as we program the generator to meet your specific heart rhythm needs.

Living with a pacemaker or ICD

Because pacemakers and ICDs run on battery power, we need to check your device at routine follow-up visits to ensure it works. These visits also allow us to check for new symptoms that may indicate your pacemaker or ICD isn’t operating as it should.

You can go about your day like before you received your pacemaker or ICD, but be aware of things in your environment that could interfere with your device.

Magnets, metal detectors, cellphones, and other electronic devices can disrupt the functionality of an ICD or pacemaker and cause health complications.

You should also follow through with other therapies your provider recommends to treat an arrhythmia, including taking medications as prescribed. If you notice changes in your heart health or overall wellness after receiving your pacemaker or ICD, let our office know right away.

To discuss your options for a pacemaker or ICD, call the Chinatown Cardiology office near you or request an appointment online today.