The purpose of an implanted cardiac defibrillator is to prevent sudden cardiac death caused by a fatal heart rhythm. Certain people are at higher risk for having a fatal heart rhythm. We will help you determine if you are part of this higher risk group. An implanted Cardiac Defibrillator is a small computer that is placed under the skin or muscle on the upper part of the chest near the shoulder. Wires are placed in the heart and attached to the defibrillator so that it can constantly monitor the heart rhythm. If the computer detects a dangerous potentially fatal heart rhythm, the defibrillator will immediately deliver a shock to the heart to stop the abnormal heart rhythm and restore normal electrical function for the heart.

A defibrillator procedure is considered minimally invasive and is not open heart surgery. In most cases you will be discharged home safely the morning after the procedure.