Factors Your Doctor May Consider – Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator

In general, most people who are candidates for an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to treat sudden cardiac arrest have one or more of the following risk factors:

Heart failure
Had a heart attack
A family member who experienced sudden cardiac arrest
A previous episode of sudden cardiac arrest
An ejection fraction equal to or less than 35%

As with any medical treatment, there are risks associated with device therapy. We encourage you to print this information and discuss ICD therapy with your doctor.

Next: Your Healthcare Team

Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.

Last updated: 15 Dec 2008