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Pacemakers and Implantable Defibrillators
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Blood Heart Circulation

Pacemakers and Implantable Defibrillators

Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are medical devices implanted in the chest or abdomen to manage serious heart rhythm disorders.

Overview

An arrhythmia is any disorder of your heart rate or rhythm, meaning the heart beats too quickly, too slowly, or with an irregular pattern. Most arrhythmias result from problems in the electrical system of the heart. If an arrhythmia is serious, a cardiac pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) may be required.

Pacemakers

A pacemaker helps control abnormal heart rhythms by using electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate. It serves several functions:

  • Speeding up a slow heart rhythm
  • Controlling a fast heart rhythm
  • Coordinating the chambers of the heart

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD)

An ICD monitors heart rhythms and delivers shocks if it senses dangerous rhythms, a treatment known as defibrillation. These devices help control life-threatening arrhythmias, particularly those that can cause sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Many modern ICDs function as both a pacemaker and a defibrillator, and they often record the heart's electrical patterns during abnormal heartbeats to assist doctors in planning future treatment.

Procedure and Recovery

Implanting a pacemaker or ICD requires minor surgery. Patients typically stay in the hospital for one or two days to ensure the device is functioning correctly. Most individuals are able to return to their normal activities within a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

fter implantation, you'll need to avoid raising the arm on the side of the implant above shoulder level for several weeks to allow the incision to heal and the wires to set. You should also avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities during this initial period. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on when you can resume normal activities.
If your ICD delivers a shock, it means it detected a dangerous heart rhythm. You should contact your doctor immediately, even if you feel fine afterward. If you receive multiple shocks in a short period, or if you feel unwell, dizzy, or lose consciousness, call emergency services right away.
Most household appliances are safe. However, avoid prolonged close contact with strong magnetic fields, such as those found in large stereo speakers, induction cooktops, or metal detectors. Inform all healthcare providers (including dentists) that you have an implanted device, as certain medical procedures like MRI scans, electrocautery, or therapeutic radiation may require special precautions or programming adjustments.
The battery life for pacemakers and ICDs typically ranges from 5 to 10 years, depending on the device type and how often it's used. Your doctor will monitor the battery life during your regular check-ups. When replacement is needed, it's usually a minor outpatient procedure where the existing device generator is removed and a new one is implanted, often using the same wires.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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