Random internal component failure of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator

J Interv Card Electrophysiol. 2004 Apr;10(2):175-6. doi: 10.1023/B:JICE.0000019273.10403.91.

Abstract

Internal component failure of the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD) is a rare complication, which can have a potentially catastrophic outcome. We describe a patient with random component failure, which occurred due to electrical overstress damage to the high voltage hybrid as a result of inappropriate arcing, as detected by the manufacturer. This in turn damaged other components in the device. This secondary damage caused the device to reset, emitting a constant tone. A high current state was created, thereby depleting the battery prematurely. The problem was promptly detected and rectified by ICD generator replacement.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Death, Sudden, Cardiac / prevention & control
  • Defibrillators, Implantable / adverse effects*
  • Device Removal
  • Equipment Failure
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myocardial Infarction / complications
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnosis
  • Myocardial Infarction / therapy
  • Risk Assessment
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / complications
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / diagnosis
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome