What does AICD in situ mean?
What does AICD in situ mean?
An Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator, (AICD), is a small electronic device that is implanted into your chest to monitor and correct an abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmia. These devices are used to treat serious and life-threatening arrhythmias and are the most effective way of doing so.
Is an AICD the same as a pacemaker?
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) looks similar to a pacemaker, though slightly larger. It works very much like a pacemaker. But the ICD can send an energy shock that resets an abnormal heartbeat back to normal. Many devices combine a pacemaker and ICD in one unit for people who need both functions.
Is an AICD the same as a defibrillator?
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD or AICD) is a permanent device in which a lead (wire) inserts into the right ventricle and monitors the heart rhythm. It is implanted similar to a single chamber pacemaker and the generator lays in the upper chest area and venous access is through the subclavian vein.
What is an AICD device?
An AICD is a device that monitors a person’s heart rate. They are generally implanted into heart failure patients. The device is programmed to perform the following tasks: speed up or slow down your heart, depending upon the heart rate.
Is AICD a major surgery?
Once the doctor knows the AICD is working properly, he/she will stitch the pocket of skin closed. The entire procedure takes about an hour. It is considered a minor operation, and you should be able to return to normal activities soon.
What is the definition of in situ?
Listen to pronunciation. (in SY-too) In its original place. For example, in carcinoma in situ, abnormal cells are found only in the place where they first formed.
Can you defibrillate a patient with an AICD?
Yes, this is safe. Most pacemakers and ICDs (implantable cardioverter defibrillators) are implanted in the upper left side of the chest. During CPR, chest compressions are done in the centre of the chest and should not affect a pacemaker or ICD that has been in place for a while.
Who should get an AICD?
Who might want an ICD? An ICD often is placed in people with heart failure who have survived a dangerous abnormal rhythm. The ICD would protect them if they get another abnormal heart rhythm. But it also may be offered to people with heart failure who haven’t had an abnormal heart rhythm but are at risk for one.
How long does an AICD last?
The lithium battery in an ICD can last 5 to 7 years. The battery is typically checked during regular checkups, which should occur about every six months. When the battery is nearly out of power, the generator is replaced with a new one during a minor outpatient procedure.
How is AICD placed?
What does the implantation involve? Under general anesthesia, your cardiologist will make a small incision in your upper chest near the collarbone. A wire will be run through a vein into the heart and a small cavity will be created to place the AICD, which is about the size of a deck of cards.
