An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a small device placed in the chest that helps monitor heart rhythm and treat dangerous heart rhythms.
Our Capabilities
At UC Health, heart care is delivered by a team of specialists in electrophysiology, cardiology, cardiac surgery, and cardiac anesthesia. Our teams work together to provide advanced treatment options for patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. UC Health is also proud to offer leading-edge technologies, including newer, wireless alternatives to traditional devices such as the EV-ICD.
Heart and Vascular Care
- Learn MoreAn implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a small device placed in the body to help prevent sudden cardiac death. It monitors the heart rhythm and can deliver a shock if a dangerous heart rhythm is detected. The device is transvenous, meaning that its wires travel through the veins and into the heart.
ICDs are used for people who are at risk for life-threatening heart rhythm problems.
An ICD is placed under the skin in the chest. Thin wires (leads) connect the device to the heart.
The device:
An ICD may be recommended for people as a primary prevention, those who have not experienced a cardiac arrest or life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia but are considered at high risk, or as a secondary prevention, patients who have survived a cardiac arrest or already experience a life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia. You may be a candidate for an ICD if you:
Before your ICD procedure, your care team will review your medical history, heart condition and test results. You may have tests such as blood work, imaging or heart rhythm monitoring.
Your provider will also give you instructions on:
You will meet with your care team, which may include heart rhythm specialists, anesthesia providers and nursing staff who will explain what to expect.
The ICD is placed during a minor surgical procedure, usually under sedation or general anesthesia so you are comfortable and do not feel pain.
A small incision is made, usually near the upper chest. The device is placed under the skin, and thin wires (leads) are guided into position and connected to the heart.
Once the device is in place, your care team will:
The procedure usually takes a few hours.
Most patients stay in the hospital overnight and go home the next day.
After your ICD is placed, you will be monitored as you recover from the procedure. Your care team will check your heart rhythm and ensure the device is working properly.
You may notice:
Most patients can return to light daily activities within a few days. Full recovery typically takes a few weeks.
During recovery, you may need to:
Your care team will give you specific instructions based on your condition and procedure.
You will have follow-up visits to:
Your care team will continue to monitor your heart rhythm over time, including remote device checks when appropriate.
At UC Health, heart rhythm care is delivered by highly specialized Cardiac Rhythm Disorders specialists, including expert cardiac electrophysiologists, cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and cardiac anesthesia specialists.
We offer advanced, coordinated care for ICD implantation and long-term heart rhythm management, including streamlined access for patients with arrhythmias and AFib.
When it comes to the latest in care, we never miss a beat. Your heart shouldn’t either. Call 513-475-8521 or schedule online for an appointment.
Content is written in plain language in collaboration with UC Health clinicians to reflect current evidence‑based care. If your plan differs from what’s described here, follow your care team’s instructions.
Page updated: 07/14/2026
Expert review by: Christiano Spadaccio, MD
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