What are the complications of an AICD?
The defibrillator unit can cause local discomfort. The most common long-term complication is the delivery of shocks when the patient does not need them. This is less of a problem with more recent devices. The patient is usually quite aware of each shock, even though it is very short in duration. The patient’s doctor should be notified of every shock the patient feels. When the batteries have depleted their energy, the pulse generator must be replaced. Replacement of the pulse generator requires only minor surgery. Another consideration is the cost. It is estimated that evaluation, EPS studies, surgical implantation, and the device itself may cost between $45,000 and $55,000. Replacement of a depleted pulse generator costs only a fraction of the initial amount.
