Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation

The implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a device that protects the heart. Like a pacemaker, it is implanted under the skin and connected to the heart by leads, but it has an essential additional function: it permanently monitors the heart rhythm and, if it detects a serious ventricular rhythm disorder, it automatically delivers the appropriate treatment to restore a normal rhythm. The ICD is offered to patients at risk of a severe ventricular rhythm disorder: a history of serious arrhythmia, certain heart muscle diseases, heart failure with impaired ventricular function, or rhythm diseases of genetic origin. It acts as a permanent guardian angel, most of the time completely silently. Today's defibrillators also provide the functions of a conventional pacemaker and can treat many arrhythmias with painless rapid pacing, delivery of a shock being reserved for situations that require it. At Clinique Pasteur Tunis, ICD implantation is performed by the heart rhythm team under optimal safety conditions, with complete device testing and a personalised follow-up programme in consultation.