Device Implants

Also known as: device implantation, device insertion.

What are device implants?

Device implants refers to the medical procedure required to implant a device that regulates and/or monitors the heart rate and rhythm. They could be:

  • a pacemaker
  • an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
  • a subcutaneous implantable defibrillator (SQ-ICD)
  • an implantable loop recorder

What happens during the procedure?

To implant the pacemaker or ICD, your doctor will use a sheath to tap into a blood vessel. Then the lead wire from the devices will be threaded to the heart. The device itself is surgically implanted under the skin through an incision by the collarbone. Then the incision is closed with sutures.

In the case of an implantable loop recorder, no part of the device goes into the heart, as its purpose is to monitor the heart rate and rhythm only. The device is implanted under the skin through a small incision on the left side of the chest, then the skin is closed with a special “skin glue.”

Is any special preparation needed?

You may need to avoid food or drink before the procedure. You also may need to stop taking certain medications for a short period of time.

What are the risk factors?

Certain electrical devices can interact negatively with the pacemaker or implanted internal defibrillator. It’s best to avoid metal detectors, MRI, anti-theft devices in stores or high-voltage machinery. You should also keep cell phones at least six inches away from the device, and use caution with high-intensity sports.

Device implants at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Device implants (implantable cardioverter defibrillator, subcutaneous implantable defibrillator, pacemaker, implantable loop recorder) are performed by Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s team of top-notch medical professionals using the latest cutting edge techniques.


Reviewed by: Sherrie Joy A Baysa, MD

This page was last updated on: April 30, 2021 11:48 AM

The Heart Institute: Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery

The Heart Institute – a world leader in pediatric cardiology and cardiovascular surgery and the care of children with congenital heart disorders – serves as a beacon to families confronting the reality of a child or newborn with a heart defect.

Learn More