Post ICD Implant Care
Before understanding post-ICD implant care, it is important to understand ICDs and why they are needed.
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICDs)
An ICD, or Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator, is implanted in the chest to monitor and stabilize the heart rhythm. It is a small battery-powered device. The main job of ICDs is to deliver electrical shocks, which help in correcting arrhythmias (dangerously fast heartbeats).
ICDs work consistently after implant work to prevent serious health issues like cardiac arrest. It is recommended for patients with weak heart muscle or a history of cardiac issues, as they are at risk of fatal arrhythmias.
Types of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators
There are two basic types of ICDs: transvenous and subcutaneous ICDs. Let’s understand the difference:
The post-ICD implant care remains largely the same with both types of ICDs.
Post-ICD Implant Care: Life After Surgery
Generally, people have a notion that cardiac defibrillator aftercare takes a toll; some consider it scary; however, it is not extremely difficult.
There have been multiple studies done in the medical world to show that ICDs can improve and extend life and allow individuals to lead a good quality of life with proper post-ICD implant care.
ICDs After Implantation Call for Some Medications
Your doctor will prescribe certain medicines for proper cardiac defibrillator aftercare. Medicines aid your ICDs and help your heart pump consistently.
Maintain Your Device for Proper Post-ICD Implant Care
To maintain the ICDs, you will first have to understand the device. So, ensure that you know how your ICD works with the instructions it comes along with.
An ICD battery lasts easily for about 10 years; however, it should be checked frequently.
Here are a few points that help with ICDs after implant:
- ICDs are supposed to be checked on a regular basis. It is crucial to check how the wires (leads) are working and how the battery is doing. Along with this, check whether your health condition or any external factors have affected the performance of ICDs.
- Ask your doctor when you need a professional checkup. A professional medical team generally checks ICDs multiple times a year. Even though a physical visit to a medical center/hospital/clinic is preferred, sometimes it may be done online or via a phone call.
- Health care professionals have a specialized analyzer that helps in detecting early warning signs about the battery performance. If the batteries are running out, regular checkups by a doctor will detect it before you notice any changes.
- Before the batteries of ICDs are nearly drained, it is crucial to replace them through a minimally invasive surgical procedure. The procedure of replacement is less complicated than the actual ICD implantation.
Things to Keep in Mind When You Have ICDs After Implants
Your ICD needs at least six weeks to settle in your body. Hence, you have to understand and follow certain “Do’s” and “Don’ts” for proper care. Even though doctors give clear and specific instructions as per your condition, here are some common things to keep in mind.
- You can take baths and showers as usual normally after 1 week. There is no need to be cautious of water. The ICDs are completely safe against water contact.
- Try to stay away from strong electrical fields and heavy magnets.
- If you are travelling by air, inform the airport officials about your implantation and post-implant care during travel.
- Whenever you visit other doctors or healthcare professionals for other treatment purposes, inform them that you can have an ICD implant done.
- You may suffer mental stress and other conditions like anxiety for a short span after implantation. Do not hesitate to inform your doctors. It is normal, however, and should be noticed and treated timely.
- Avoid heavy physical exercises for at least a month after ICD implantation. Do not lift anything heavy for any purpose. The key is not to put pressure on the site of the ICD.
- Travel by all means is generally considered safe; however, still ask your doctor before making any travel plans.
FAQs
Is it normal to feel anxious or stressed after an ICD implantation?
If you feel anxious, sad and stressed for a few months after implantation, do not panic. It is common among the recipients. However, we suggest you deal with these concerns right after you notice them with appropriate post-ICD implant care and mental health care.
What is an ICD ID?
In some regions, a recipient is offered an ID or a medical document that shows they have had an ICD implantation. If you receive one, try to keep a copy with you always. It helps in case of accidents and sudden health issues, as emergency health care professionals can get the right knowledge about your health conditions and treat you accordingly.
How long does it take to recover after ICD implantation?
ICD implantation does not restrict you completely; however, you should wait at least a month to indulge in heavy exercise, or other physically draining activities. We suggest reaching out to your doctor for a detailed insight into how to resume your day-to-day activities once you have ICDs after implant.
Can I drive within a week of ICD implantation?
Even if you follow proper post-ICD implant care, your doctors will not suggest driving so early. Mainly because ICD recipients are prone to fainting after implantation. Thus, do not take the risk without getting approval from your doctor. Some countries even have a strict no-driving rule for recipients for at least six months after ICD.
