Surgically inserting the S-ICD generally takes about one hour. The 6-step procedure is described in more detail below¹:
- An incision is made on the left side of the chest, next to the rib cage.
- A pocket or pouch is formed under the skin, where the S-ICD pulse generator will be inserted.
- Two small incisions are made slightly to the left of the breastbone to allow the electrode to be placed under the skin.
- The electrode is then attached to the S-ICD pulse generator.
- Once the S-ICD has been implanted, most doctors will test the device. You will be asleep during this part of the procedure, during which the doctor induces an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) and the S-ICD is allowed to detect and stop your abnormal heart rhythm automatically. Some settings will be adjusted to work best for your heart using a separate programmer tablet.
- Finally, your doctor will close the incisions to complete the procedure.
