Cardiac Electronic Devices: Pacemakers and ICDs

Joseph Souza, MD, FACC, an electrophysiologist with Asheville Cardiology Associates in Asheville, NC, provides an overview of “the range of implantable device options, including the permanent pacemaker, implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), and biventricular pacemaker.” Souza discusses the possible reasons for needing an implantable cardiac device and offers an overview of the success rates and possible complications. He also talks about what patients should expect upon arrival at the hospital on the day of the procedure and reviews key aspects of the recovery process for the procedure.