Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Treatment for an abnormal heart rhythm depends on the cause and how it is impacting your health.
  • Your doctor may recommend an implantable heart device such as a permanent pacemaker or automated implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to help keep the heart beating in a regular rhythm.
  • A permanent pacemaker sends electrical signals to your heart to keep it beating at a normal rate and rhythm.
  • An automated AICD or ICD checks your heart rhythm 24 hours a day and can correct dangerous abnormal heart rhythms if needed.
  • Many people find that they can get back to their everyday activities a few weeks after getting an implantable heart device. It is important to follow your doctor’s advice about medicines and any recommended lifestyle changes.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 09-01-2023