For the first time ever, an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) was inserted on a patient at Peebles Hospital on April 18, 2019. Photo: VINO/File

According to Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Peebles Hospital, Dr Rodger L. Miller, the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) is pleased to be able to continue to expand its range of services. Photo: BVIHSA

An ICD is a battery-powered device that is placed under the skin that keeps track of a patient’s heart rate. Two thin wires connect the device to one or more of the chambers of the heart. If an abnormal heart rhythm is detected the device will deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat if the heart is beating chaotically and much too fast.

A press release from the Department of Information on May 10, 2019 quoted Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Peebles Hospital Dr Rodger L. Miller as saying: “The device allows not only pacing but also cardioversion and defibrillation, which means that it is able to shock a patient and get their heart back into a regular rhythm if abnormality is detected.”

An ICD is a battery-powered device that is placed under the skin that keeps track of a patient’s heart rate. Photo: American Heart Association

BVIHSA continues to expand services

According to heart.org, ICDs have been very useful in preventing sudden death in patients with known, sustained ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Studies have shown that they may have a role in preventing cardiac arrest in high-risk patients who haven't had, but are at risk for, life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.

“We are pleased that we can continue to expand our range of services as we continue on our mission of delivering optimum care to the people of the Territory,” Dr Miller said.

Dr Miller further added that Pacemaker and Cardiothoracic clinics offered at the BVI Health Services Authority are providing these services. “At the pacemaker clinic, devices are checked and re-programmed if necessary. Patients with surgical cardiac or thoracic problems can be evaluated and followed up with at the Cardiothoracic Clinic. Both clinics are held on the second Thursday of every month.”

Persons interested in attending any of the clinics can contact the Out Patient Clinic at 852-7554 to schedule an appointment. The next clinic for pacemaker and cardiothoracic services will be held on June 13, 2019.

Meanwhile, this news site sought a comment from Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Carvin Malone (AL) but did not receive a reply up to time of publication.