Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator device
At Sharp, we're proud to offer the latest treatment options and surgical procedures for those at risk for sudden cardiac arrest — including S-ICD, or a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator device.
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A breakthrough treatment option for patients at risk for sudden cardiac arrest, the subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) is an innovative system designed to provide the same protection from sudden cardiac arrest as transvenous ICDs.
About the S-ICD procedure
The S-ICD system sits just below the skin and without the need for thin, insulated wires — known as electrodes or "leads" — to be placed in the heart. Instead, an electrode — located just under the skin near the chest bone — delivers a lifesaving jolt to the heart if it suddenly stops. The procedure to implant the device is less invasive than that for the traditional defibrillator implant.
The system has two main components:
The electrode, which enables the device to sense the cardiac rhythm and deliver shocks when necessary
The pulse generator, which powers the system, monitors heart activity and delivers a shock if needed
Patients who suffer from congestive heart failure are constantly at risk for an accelerated heart rate to the point that the heart can no longer maintain blood circulation. Approximately 8,000 San Diegans are currently in need of a heart defibrillator implant.
San Diego heart care locations
We offer the S-ICD procedure at the following Sharp hospitals.
