Staten Island Reporter

Pacemakers and internal defibrillators are both medical devices used to manage arrhythmias, which occur when the heart beats irregularly. Richmond University Medical Center has provided insights into the differences between these two devices and their specific applications.

Arrhythmias can result from various conditions such as cardiac arrest, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, diabetes, high blood pressure, COVID-19, thyroid issues, sleep apnea, certain medications, excessive alcohol or caffeine intake, drug misuse, smoking, stress, and genetic factors. While some arrhythmias are minor concerns, severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications. Both pacemakers and defibrillators help correct faulty electrical signals in the heart to prevent severe arrhythmias.

An internal cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is surgically implanted within a patient's body. It consists of a generator placed under the sternum or in the abdomen and sensors located on or inside the heart. The ICD monitors heart rate and delivers low-energy electric shocks when it detects an irregular rhythm. If necessary, it can deliver a higher-energy shock to restore normal rhythm. "The brief high-energy shock delivered by an ICD makes it the best solution for tachycardia," according to Richmond University Medical Center. Physicians often recommend ICDs for patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest due to arrhythmia.

A pacemaker also consists of a generator and sensors but differs from an ICD in its function. Pacemakers deliver steady low-energy shocks rather than single high-energy ones. These continuous pulses prompt each heartbeat over time to maintain a regular rhythm. Pacemakers are particularly effective for treating bradycardia—a condition where the heartbeat is too slow—and other issues like hearts that pause frequently or have chambers beating out of sync.

Both devices can record heart rate data that physicians use during checkups to assess treatment effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.

Richmond University Medical Center encourages individuals with heart conditions causing arrhythmia to seek care at their cardiovascular department in Staten Island, New York: "Our cardiovascular Department...is staffed by a team of compassionate specialists and cardiologists who can help you determine which device is best for you."