A pacemaker and an AICD are both medical devices that help regulate a person’s heart rate. However, they serve different purposes and are used in different situations. An AICD is typically implanted in people who have had a heart attack and it helps prevent future cardiac problems. A pacemaker is used to treat arrhythmia, which is an abnormal heart rhythm. It can also be used to help keep the heart beating regularly after surgery. So, what’s the difference between these two types of devices? Let’s take a closer look.
What is AICD?
AICD is an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. It is a device that is inserted under the skin, usually in the chest area and is threaded into the vena cava, which is the large vein that returns blood from the body to the heart. AICD monitors the heart’s electrical activity and rhythm. If it detects a rapid heart rate or an irregular heart rhythm, it sends out electrical impulses to pacing wires (leads) that are connected to the heart.
These electrical impulses help to restore a normal heart rhythm. AICD has been shown to be effective in treating and preventing sudden cardiac death. It is one of the most common implantable devices used in cardiology and has helped countless people who are at risk for sudden cardiac death. AICD is a life-saving device that can be implanted in people of all ages.
What is Pacemaker?
A pacemaker is a device that is placed under the skin of the chest. It helps to control the heartbeat. The Pacemaker has two leads that are connected to the heart. The Pacemaker uses electrical signals to pace the heartbeat. Pacemakers are used to treat arrhythmias. Arrhythmias are when the heart beats too fast, slow, or irregular. Pacemakers are also used to treat heart failure. Heart failure is when the heart cannot pump enough blood to the body. Pacemakers can improve the quality of life for people who have arrhythmias or heart failure. Pacemakers can also be lifesaving.
Difference between AICD and Pacemaker
AICD stands for Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator while a pacemaker is a device that is used to regulate the heartbeat. Both AICD and pacemaker are cardiac rhythm management devices but they have different implications. A pacemaker is implanted when the heartbeat is too slow or irregular while AICD is implanted when there is a high risk of sudden cardiac death due to ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation.
AICD sends electric shocks to restore normal heart rhythm while the pacemaker gives small electrical impulses to stimulate the heart muscles so that they can contract at a regular pace. AICD is considered a life-saving device while a pacemaker improves the quality of life. AICD has more complications than a pacemaker and AICD implantation is a more invasive procedure.
Conclusion
The AICD and pacemaker are two devices used to treat heart conditions. While they share a common goal, their mechanisms are different. If you’re considering one of these devices, it’s important to understand the difference so that you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.
