Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD): from instant recognition of dangerous arrhythmias to automatic life-saving
The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is an innovative device that saves the lives of patients with dangerous heart rhythm disorders. In Germany, ICD implantation is carried out using the latest technologies and minimally invasive techniques, which can significantly reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death. At RheinRegio Klinik Zentrum, the procedure is performed by leading cardiac surgeons with many years of experience.
What is ICD?
An ICD is a compact electronic device that:
- Constantly monitors heart rate
- Automatically detects dangerous arrhythmias (ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation)
- Delivers an electrical shock to restore normal rhythm
- Functions as a pacemaker to slow the heart rate
The device consists of:
- Pulse generator (implanted under the skin)
- Electrodes (passed through veins to the heart)
Indications for ICD implantation
Main indications include:
- Previous cardiac arrest (due to ventricular fibrillation)
- Ventricular tachycardia with high risk of sudden death
- Reduced ejection fraction (<35%) in heart failure
- Hereditary diseases (eg, Brugada syndrome)
- Ineffectiveness of drug therapy
Contraindications
ICD implantation is not recommended for:
- Severe concomitant diseases with a life prognosis of less than 1 year
- Persistent uncontrolled arrhythmias
- Infectious processes in the area of implantation
Treatment in Germany
1. Accurate diagnosis before surgery
German clinics conduct:
- ECG and Holter monitoring
- Echocardiography with ejection fraction assessment
- Electrophysiological study (EPS)
- Cardiac MRI (if necessary)
2. Minimally invasive implantation
The operation is performed:
- Under local anesthesia
- Through a small incision (3-5 cm)
- Using X-ray navigation
- Duration – about 1 hour
3. Modern ICD models
Available in Germany:
- Single and double chamber systems
- Subcutaneous ICDs (without electrodes in vessels)
- Devices with remote monitoring function
4. Rehabilitation and observation
After surgery:
- Inpatient observation 2-3 days
- Device programming
- Patient education
- Lifetime monitoring
Find out the cost of treatment
To find out the approximate cost of treatment, answer a few questions and we will contact you!
Evangelical Clinical Complex of the Lower Rhine
Evangelical Clinical Complex of the Lower Rhine (Evangelisches Klinikum Niederrhein) is one of the leading medical institutions in the region of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, with recognized expertise in the field of cardiac surgery. The clinic is equipped with advanced technologies and offers a full range of highly specialized cardiac surgical interventions.
The complex brings together a multidisciplinary team of cardiac surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists and rehabilitation specialists working in accordance with international standards. The department is equipped with hybrid operating rooms, the latest generation imaging systems and a specialized cardiac intensive care unit, which ensures high precision of interventions and patient safety.
The Cardiovascular Surgery Clinic serves approximately 3,500 patients per year, of which approximately 2,400 undergo operations using a heart-lung machine. Particular attention is paid to children with congenital heart defects who are under the supervision of a pediatric cardiology clinic.
Why RheinRegio Klinik Zentrum?
- Experienced cardiac surgeons (more than 200 successful implantations per year)
- Use of latest generation equipment
- Individual device selection
- Comfortable hospitalization conditions
- Full support for foreign patients
