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Rythmopole

Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)

The implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a small high-tech device that continuously monitors your heart. Its mission: to detect and immediately treat dangerous rhythm disorders that could threaten your life.

The ICD is a vigilant guardian of your heart:

  • Implanted under the skin, usually beneath the collarbone
  • Connected to the heart by one or more leads
  • Continuously monitors your heart rhythm
  • Acts automatically in case of a dangerous arrhythmia

When a rhythm disorder is detected, the ICD can act in two ways:

  • Rapid pacing: a gentle and painless method used first
  • An electrical shock: a stronger intervention, delivered only if necessary

In addition, most modern defibrillators also include a pacemaker function to prevent the heart from slowing down excessively.

The implantable defibrillator is recommended in two main situations:

Secondary prevention:

  • For patients who have already survived a severe rhythm disorder
  • When medication alone is not sufficient to ensure safety

Primary prevention:

  • For people who have never had a severe arrhythmia but are at high risk
  • In cases of heart disease that weakens the heart muscle
  • When certain abnormalities are detected on an electrocardiogram or imaging

The specialists at the Rythmopôle Center will carry out a personalized evaluation to determine whether this device is appropriate for your situation.

The procedure is carried out under optimal safety conditions:

  • Hospital stay of 2 to 4 days
  • Procedure performed under light sedation and local anesthesia
  • Duration: about 30 to 60 minutes
  • Incision of 4 to 5 cm below the collarbone
  • Precise guidance of the leads to the heart using radiology
  • Rate of serious complications less than 1%

After the procedure, you can usually return home within two days. Careful follow-up will be arranged to ensure your comfort and safety.

After a short adjustment period, you will be able to resume a normal life with a few simple precautions:

The first month:

  • Avoid sudden movements of the arm on the implanted side
  • Follow your doctor’s recommendations for scar care

Daily life:

  • Keep your mobile phone at least 10 cm away from the device
  • Stay at least 50 cm away from induction cooktops
  • Inform airport staff about your ICD (show your device card)
  • Driving is generally allowed (with some exceptions)
  • MRI is possible with specific medical supervision

To ensure optimal protection, your defibrillator will be checked regularly:

  • 1 to 2 consultations per year with a specialist at the Rythmopôle Center
  • Analysis of the data recorded by your device
  • Battery check (lifespan: 6 to 8 years)

A remote monitoring system can also be set up: a small unit at your home communicates daily with your ICD and our center, enabling enhanced follow-up and rapid intervention if necessary.

Scientific studies have clearly shown that implanting a defibrillator significantly reduces the risk of death in patients at risk of severe rhythm disorders.

The devices implanted in France are manufactured by global leaders (Abbott, Biotronik, Boston Scientific, Medtronic, Microport), ensuring quality and reliability.

If you have cardiac risk factors or have already experienced rhythm disorders, do not hesitate to consult the specialists at the Rythmopôle Center. Our experienced team will support you at every stage, from diagnosis to long-term follow-up. Your heart deserves the best possible protection. Contact us to assess together whether an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator could provide you with safety and peace of mind.

Questions fréquentes

Implantation d’un défibrillateur automatique sous-cutané pour prévenir les morts subites liées à une arythmie ventriculaire sévère

Assess your rhythm risk with confidence

Do you have a cardiac risk or a history of rhythm disorders? A consultation with our specialists can help provide clarity. During an appointment at the Rythmopôle Center, we will assess your situation together and determine the most suitable solutions to protect your heart with complete peace of mind.

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