What is a Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (S-ICD)?
A subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or S-ICD, is a device placed under the skin on the left side of the chest. It helps protect you from dangerous fast heart rhythms, The device checks your heart rhythm all the time. If it finds a very fast or unsafe rhythm, it gives your heart a shock to bring it back to normal.
How is it different from a traditional defibrillator?
A traditional defibrillator has a wire that goes through a blood vessel and into the heart. In S-ICD, the wire stays under the skin and runs along the breastbone, and no wires go inside the heart.
Who is a good candidate for an S-ICD?
S-ICD does not work as a pacemaker and cannot provide pacing for slow or fast rhythms, but it delivers a shock for very fast, dangerous rhythms. Because it stays under the skin, there is a lower risk of infection.
This device may be a good choice for:
- People with high risk of infection
- People with limited vascular access
- Younger patients who may need a device for many years
***Please talk to your doctor to see which device is right for you.
This educational video has been chosen by our cardiology team. Suggested or related videos displayed by the video provider are outside of our control and do not represent the views or endorsements of our physicians or clinic.
Procedure Instructions (Pre/Day of/Post)
PRE-PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS
- The night before your procedure AND the morning of your procedure please cleanse with an antimicrobial soap, like Dial or Hibiclens (can be purchased over-the-counter at most pharmacies).
- Nothing to eat or drink (NPO) after the midnight, the night before your procedure (you may take your morning medications with a small sip of water).
- Please bring a copy of your current medication list to the hospital.
DAY OF PROCEDURE
- Report to the Main Registration Desk at El Camino Hospital. ***Please note you will be notified of any scheduling changes.
- 2500 Grant Road, Mountain View, CA 94040
- You will be observed for several hours after the procedure and possibly be admitted for overnight observation. Please bring an overnight bag, just in case.
- If you are kept overnight, you will be discharged from the hospital in the morning the next day. Please arrange a ride home from the hospital.
POST-PROCEDURE
- You will get detailed instructions upon discharge about wound care.
- You should have a post-op appointment scheduled with your electrophysiologist already, about 7-11 days after your procedure.
If you have any questions, please contact our office at (650) 853-2975, Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm.