The difference between ICD and pacemaker

The difference between pacemaker and ICD is generally defibrillation and anti-tachycardia, low-energy cardioversion and size. Pacemaker stimulates the myocardium through the conduction of pulse generator and electrode, which makes the heart contract. ICD is the abbreviation of implantable cardioverter defibrillator, which consists of pulse generator and electrode lead, and can sense ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. Both can be used to treat arrhythmia. Details are as follows:

1, defibrillation and anti-tachycardia function: ordinary pacemakers can only be used to help pace the heart when the heartbeat is slow. However, ICD can inhibit ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation by resisting tachycardia discharge or pacing, and reduce syncope or sudden death.

2. Low-energy cardioversion: Ordinary pacemakers cannot cardioversion at low energy, but ICD can monitor the patient's physical condition at any time and release a small amount of electric shock to stop abnormal heart rhythm.

3. Size: Compared with ordinary pacemakers, ICD is smaller and more convenient to carry, and can be buried between pectoralis major and pectoralis minor or in subcutaneous pockets.