Services

ICD Generator Exchange

Implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) are small battery-powered devices that are placed under the skin of your chest to monitor and treat potentially lethal arrhythmias. The ICD has a pulse generator containing the battery that powers the device. After the initial ICD implantation, the generator and battery will have to be replaced during an ICD generator exchange.

Why ICD Generator Exchange is Performed

The battery in the ICD will last for several years before it needs to be replaced. Your cardiologist will monitor your ICD and let you know when it is time for the battery to be changed. When that happens, you will be scheduled for an ICD generator exchange procedure.

What to Expect

Implantable cardiac defibrillator generator exchange surgery is a relatively simple procedure. The doctor won’t have to enter your chest cavity to change the battery/generator.

Before the Procedure

After checking in to the Cardiovascular ASC, you will be taken to a patient room where a specialist will insert an IV to administer a sedative. The amount of sedation needed for the procedure depends on your specific health conditions. You may be being fully awake or lightly sedated (conscious sedation).

During the Procedure

Your electrophysiologist will make a cut into the pocket of skin and tissue surrounding the generator. The old generator will be disconnected from the ICDs leads. Then it will be removed. Your electrophysiologist will then put a new generator in the same pocket and connect it to the leads that are in place. At that point, your ICD will work just as before.

In rare cases, you may need to have the leads removed or replaced along with or instead of generator replacement. This is a more complex procedure.

After the Procedure

Your healthcare provider will monitor you after the procedure. You may not remember much of the procedure. In most cases, you can go home after a couple of hours. You’ll need to have someone drive you home from the ASC after the procedure.

Be sure to follow all of your doctor’s aftercare instructions. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have heavy bleeding from your incision, a fever, or other severe symptoms.

Contact ASC, LLC

At Cardiovascular ASC, LLC our board-certified cardiologists and electrophysiologists utilize advanced technologies to deliver the highest quality care in a cost-effective setting. Call Cardiovascular ASC, LLC at 727-449-9891 to learn more about our facility and the services we provide.