AICD Implantation in Shalimar Bagh, Delhi
An Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (AICD), also known as an ICD, is a small electronic device implanted under the skin of the chest to continuously monitor the heart’s rhythm and deliver life-saving therapy when dangerous ventricular arrhythmias occur.
At Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Dr. Nityanand Tripathi, Principal Director & HOD – Cardiology & Electrophysiology, is a highly experienced specialist in AICD implantation for the prevention of sudden cardiac death.
What is an AICD / ICD?
An AICD (Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator) is a sophisticated cardiac device that detects life-threatening heart rhythms such as Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) or Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) and automatically delivers therapy in the form of anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) or an electrical shock to restore normal rhythm.
The device consists of a pulse generator (placed under the skin in the upper chest) and one or more leads that are positioned inside the heart through a vein.
Who Needs AICD Implantation?
AICD implantation is recommended in the following situations:
- Patients with previous myocardial infarction (heart attack) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 30% (at least 40 days after MI)
- Patients with heart failure (NYHA Class II or III) and LVEF ≤ 35% despite optimal medical therapy
- Survivors of cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation or sustained ventricular tachycardia
- Patients with sustained VT causing significant symptoms
- Selected patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM/HOCM) who have high-risk features for sudden cardiac death
- Other inherited or acquired conditions with high risk of sudden cardiac death
High-Risk Features in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
AICD may be considered in HCM patients if one or more of the following are present:
- Previous cardiac arrest or sustained ventricular tachycardia
- Family history of sudden cardiac death
- Unexplained syncope
- Maximum left ventricular wall thickness ≥ 30 mm
- Abnormal blood pressure response during exercise (in selected cases)
- Presence of extensive late gadolinium enhancement on MRI (in some guidelines)
How is AICD Implantation Performed?
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation. A small incision is made in the upper chest. The leads are advanced into the heart through a vein (usually the subclavian or axillary vein) and positioned under X-ray guidance. The generator is then connected to the leads and placed in a pocket under the skin. The entire procedure typically takes 1–2 hours.
Why Choose Dr. Nityanand Tripathi for AICD Implantation?
Dr. Nityanand Tripathi is a highly experienced interventional cardiologist and Electrophysiologist with more than 31 years of expertise. As the Principal Director & HOD of Cardiology & Electrophysiology at Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh, he offers:
- Extensive experience in AICD / ICD implantation
- Expertise in complex device therapy including CRT-D
- Comprehensive evaluation for sudden cardiac death risk
- Patient-centric approach with detailed counseling
- Advanced facilities at Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh