ICD & CRTD

ICD (Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator) and CRT-D (Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillator) are implantable heart devices, but a CRT-D is an advanced type of ICD for heart failure patients, combining pacing for synchronized pumping (CRT) with defibrillation (ICD) to correct dangerous fast rhythms, making it more comprehensive than a standard ICD. An ICD primarily delivers shocks for life-threatening arrhythmias, while a CRT-D uses multiple leads (usually three) to pace both ventricles (biventricular pacing) for better pumping and also provides defibrillation, improving heart function and preventing sudden cardiac death.

ICD (Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator)

• Function: Monitors heart rhythm and delivers electrical shocks or pacing to correct dangerously fast heartbeats (ventricular tachycardia, fibrillation) to prevent sudden cardiac arrest.
• Best For: High-risk patients for sudden cardiac death, often with severe heart disease.
• Leads: Typically one or two leads.