HOW DR DAVID BEGLEY CAN HELP
Patients suffering from heart rate abnormalities often contact Dr David Begley in search of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator specialist in Cambridge. As a surgeon of high renown and with many years experience, Dr Begley can improve the quality of his patients lives using implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) technology.
What Is An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a small device that’s placed in your chest that uses electrical pulses or shocks to help control life-threatening, irregular heartbeats. It is most commonly used in patients suffering from conditions that could cause sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
SCA is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly beats chaotically and fails to effectively pump any blood. If this happens, the blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs, which can very quickly lead to permanent, irreversible damage or even death.
What Is The Difference Between An ICD And A Pacemaker?
Pacemakers are designed to give off a low level electrical pulse to regulate and control the heart rates of patients suffering with arrhythmia. An ICD on the other hand, offers the features of a pacemaker, but has a main focus on the rapid treatment of life-threatening rhythms with fast pacing and shocks.
An ICD is also larger than the average pacemaker, with a significantly larger generator required to store energy driver to the heart for treatment of life-threatening heart rhythms.
Who Would Benefit From Having An ICD Fitted?
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Specialists in Cambridge will only use these types of technology when the patient displays significant symptoms that could be dramatically improved or could prevent loss of life. An ICD would usually be considered if the patient has heart muscle damage or heart failure, both of which could lead to dangerously fast heart rhythms.
Unlike pacemakers which are used to treat symptoms, an ICD could be suggested to a patient suffering from the above, before the heart rate changes or symptoms are identified.
ICDs however, do not prevent heart attacks caused by blockages in the hearts arteries, but they are designed to treat the abnormal rhythms sometimes associated with heart attacks. ICDs do not keep people alive forever. People with ICDs can die of causes other than heart rhythm problems.
Dr Begley – Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Specialist Cambridge
To make an appointment please contact Dr David Begley’s Private Secretary, Ruth Littlechild on 01480 364 112 or please use the contact form.
If you have experienced symptoms you might think are related to heart rhythm disturbance or have been diagnosed with an arrhythmia please discuss with your general practitioner whether referral is appropriate.