How is the implantation performed?
An implantation can be made in either your chest or your abdomen. An incision will be made in your skin below your collarbone. For an abdominal implant, a second incision is also made below your rib cage. The generator will be stored in a pocket that will be made either near the chest incision or below the rib cage under your skin or muscle. (ICDs can be inserted on either the right or left side. You may want to discuss your preference with your physician.) The lead is threaded through the incision into a vein in your upper chest. Using x-ray monitors, the lead is then guided into your heart’s chambers. For an abdominal implant, the other end of the lead is threaded under the skin from the chest to the abdomen. The generator is adjusted to the proper settings and attached to the lead. After the generator is placed under your skin or muscle, the incision is closed and covered with a sterile dressing.
