Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Achuta Uppu, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator?
A cardiologist, a heart doctor, or a surgeon most often places an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, called an ICD. An electrophysiologist, a heart doctor who treats heart rhythm problems, may also place it. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
An ICD is a device that detects a life-threatening, rapid heartbeat. This abnormal heartbeat is called an arrhythmia. If it occurs, the ICD quickly sends an electrical shock to the heart.
The pulse generator holds a battery and electrical circuits that read the electrical activity of your heart. Wires called leads go through your veins to your heart.
Why a doctor might recommend it
An ICD is placed in people who are at high risk of sudden cardiac death from a life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm.
- You have had episodes of a life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm.
- Your heart is weakened, too large, and does not pump blood very well. This may be from earlier heart attacks, heart failure, or cardiomyopathy, which is diseased heart muscle.
- You were born with a heart problem, or you have a genetic health condition.
How to prepare
Always tell your health care provider what medicines you are taking, even medicines or herbs you bought without a prescription.
- The day before surgery, tell your cardiologist or surgeon about any cold, flu, fever, herpes breakout, or other illness.
- You will usually be asked not to drink or eat anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
- Take the medicines you have been told to take, with just a small sip of water.
What happens during it
A cardiologist or surgeon most often places your ICD while you are awake. The area of your chest wall below your collarbone is numbed with anesthesia, so you will not feel pain. The clinician makes a cut through your skin and creates space under your skin and muscle for the ICD generator. The clinician places the electrode into a vein, then into your heart, using a special x-ray. The procedure most often takes 2 to 3 hours.
Recovery
Most people who have an ICD placed are able to go home from the hospital in 1 day. Full recovery takes about 4 to 6 weeks. Do not lift anything heavier than 10 to 15 pounds, and do not push, pull, or twist too much, for 2 to 3 weeks. For 4 to 6 weeks, do not lift your arm higher than your shoulder on the side of your ICD.
Keep your cut completely dry for 4 to 5 days. After that, you may shower and pat it dry. You will get a wallet card with details about your ICD. Carry it with you at all times.
Risks and side effects
Risks for any surgery include blood clots in the legs that may travel to the lungs, heart attack or stroke, allergic reactions to anesthesia medicines, and infection. Possible risks for this surgery are wound infection, injury to your heart or lungs, and dangerous heart arrhythmias. An ICD sometimes delivers shocks to your heart when you do not need them.
Tell your cardiologist about every shock you feel from your ICD. Also contact your cardiologist if your wound looks infected, with redness, increased drainage, swelling, and pain. Contact your cardiologist too if you have hiccups that do not go away, or if your ICD sent a shock and you still do not feel well. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, trouble breathing, fainting, or bleeding that will not stop.
Who performs it
A cardiologist or surgeon most often places an ICD.
Common questions
Does an ICD also work as a pacemaker?
Yes, most ICDs have a built-in pacemaker. A subcutaneous ICD, which has its lead in the tissue left of the breastbone, cannot also be a pacemaker.
How long does an ICD battery last?
ICD batteries are designed to last 4 to 8 years. You will need minor surgery to replace your ICD when the battery begins to run down.
Will I feel a shock from my ICD?
Yes, you can feel a shock in most cases, even though it lasts a very short time.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
- MedlinePlus - Implantable cardioverter defibrillator - discharge
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
