ICD (implantable defibrillator) is an electronic device. The device is used to shock the heart back into a healthy rhythm. The pacemaker is implanted in the body (in the chest area) and is used to prevent cardiac arrest from severe ventricular tachycardia (a quickly fluttering heart beat). The device works through an electrode that is inserted into the heart. The wire (lead) is connected to a tiny computer in the defibrillator.

We are not sure but a customer reported that Medtronics, a company that manufactures defibulators, said it was not affected. (Richard Dawson) For a pacemaker we don't know.

You should immediately consult with your physician to determine if your model is part of the recall, if your defibrillator is defective, and whether the risk of surgery is better than the risk of keeping your defective Guidant defibrillator unit.

Drugs eliminated by non-renal routes – INH, Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide and Thioamides may be given in normal doses.

The programmable pump will not be damaged by therapy pulses from the pacemaker or ICD. However, it is recommended to keep the programming head for the pacemaker or ICD at least 10cm (4 inches) away from the pump to minimise any potential interference. It also is important to keep the programming head of the pump programmer away from the pacemaker or ICD because the programming head contains a large magnet.

Absolutely. Never withhold defibrillation use from a person in cardiac arrest. If the person in question meets all the criteria of cardiac arrest (unresponsive, not breathing, no pulse) they are essentially "dead."

In many cases, both the pacemaker and the neurostimulator can be mutually compatible. Appropriate testing, placement and programming of the devices can help in achieving mutual compatibility. Under certain conditions, it is possible that the pacemaker or ICD could detect the output stimuli from a neurostimulator. This would cause inappropriate pacemaker or ICD operation during the time the stimuli are detected and possibly cause the delivery of an inadvertent shock.

Yes, yes, yes, and yes if the pacemaker is shielded. If it is 10 years or older, you should consult your physician or pacemaker manufacturer.

No, alcoholism cannot be cured at this time. Even if an alcoholic hasn't been drinking for a long time, he or she can still suffer a relapse. To guard against a relapse, an alcoholic must continue to avoid all alcoholic beverages. (See also "Publications/Pamphlets and Brochures," Alcoholism: Getting the Facts.)

Once you have just 2 patients enrolled in the Take Control Sample Program, we will provide you with a free RESPeRATE demo device for your clinic.

Pain is the body's warning system. It is a way of letting an individual know that something is wrong. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulations (TENS) is a safe non-invasive drug-free method of pain management. It relieves pain by sending small electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the skin to underlying nerve fibers. TENS is believed to work by two different mechanisms. First, electrical stimulation of the nerve fibers can block a pain signal from being carried to the brain.

The CK equipment can produce interference that may adversely influence the operation of other electronic equipment. Therefore, CK is not recommended for patients who are wearing a pacemaker.

Spinal-Stim can be used with a TENS unit. However, use of the device with an implanted cardiac pacemaker is prohibited.

Pacemakers are powered by long-lasting lithium batteries. However, all pacemakers need to be replaced at some time. The exact replacement time for your pacemaker depends upon the type of pacemaker, the medical condition necessitating a pacemaker, lifestyle issues, and other factors. Various methods are used to indicate when the pacemaker needs to be replaced. Your physician will be able to determine the need for a new pacemaker during regular follow-up visits.

Most pacemakers will last between 8 and 10 years, after which the entire pacemaker or its battery and/or wire(s) need to be replaced. Replacing a pacemaker may be done on an outpatient basis or may include an overnight stay in the hospital.

first, you may feel the weight of the pacemaker in your chest. However, over time, most people become accustomed to the pacemaker. The generator is very small, about the size of two silver dollars stacked on top of each other, and weighs about an ounce or less, depending on the make and model of the device.