: Turning off an ICD does not cause immediate death. It simply ensures that the patient will not receive unnecessary shocks during their final moments.
: Deactivating an ICD allows for a natural and peaceful death. If left on, the device may continue to deliver painful shocks as the heart naturally fails, which can be distressing for both the patient and their family. defibrillator death
: Healthcare providers can deactivate the shock function electronically or by placing a special clinical magnet over the device. Device Failure & Risks : Turning off an ICD does not cause immediate death
: Historically, some deaths have been linked to lead failure (broken wires) or pulse generator malfunctions. If left on, the device may continue to
: Some argue that defibrillators can take away the possibility of a "quick and painless" sudden death, instead prolonging a difficult dying process from other non-cardiac causes. Effectiveness of Emergency Defibrillation (AEDs)
Although rare, deaths can occur if an ICD fails to work when needed.
Sudden death in implantable cardioverter-defibrillator recipients