Insertion of subcutaneous electrode for the purpose of use with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)

Medical Services Advisory Committee
Record ID 32015000573
English
Authors' recommendations: The subcutaneous ICD comprises of an electrode and pulse generator. In contrast to traditional ICDs, this ICD is entirely subcutaneous. Accordingly, the system does not require an electrode to be placed either on (epicardially) or in (endocardially) the heart and no leads are passed through the venous system. The implant procedure for the subcutaneous ICD involves making a pocket for the pulse generator in the lateral thoracic region. Using a tunnelling tool, the electrode is then placed in a subcutaneous sinus along the sternum. Using anatomical landmarks only, there is no need for fluoroscopy or other medical imaging during the surgical implant procedure. The electrode is connected to the pulse generator and the system then monitors cardiac rhythms, delivers defibrillation and/or post-shock bradycardia pacing therapies as required, and records ventricular tachyarrhythmia events for subsequent clinician review.
Details
Project Status: Completed
Year Published: 2014
English language abstract: An English language summary is available
Publication Type: Not Assigned
Country: Australia
MeSH Terms
  • Humans
  • Defibrillators, Implantable
  • Electrodes, Implanted
Contact
Organisation Name: Medical Services Advisory Committee
Contact Address: MSAC (MDP 107), GPO Box 9848, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia. Tel: +61 2 6289 6811; Fax: +61 2 6289 8799.
Contact Name: msac.secretariat@health.gov.au
Contact Email: msac.secretariat@health.gov.au
Copyright: Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC)
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