AICD
Medical abbreviation · Cardiology
| Stands for | Automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
AICD stands for Automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, a cardiology abbreviation.
Older name for the implantable defibrillator, still common on problem lists, nursing notes and patient wallet cards. The device detects ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation and automatically delivers pacing or a shock to restore a normal rhythm.
Example: PMH: ischemic cardiomyopathy with AICD; magnet placed over the device during surgery to suspend shocks.
Usage notes
"Automatic" stressed that the original 1980 device needed no outside operator; current literature simply says ICD, and both terms describe the same device. Before surgery that uses electrocautery, shock therapies are usually suspended by reprogramming or a magnet to prevent inappropriate shocks, then restored afterward.
Related abbreviations
More cardiology abbreviations
- AED – Automated external defibrillator
- AF – Atrial fibrillation
- AFib – Atrial fibrillation
- AFL – Atrial flutter
- AHA – American Heart Association
- AI – Aortic insufficiency
- AMI – Acute myocardial infarction
- AR – Aortic regurgitation
- ARVC – Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
- AS – Aortic stenosis
- ASCVD – Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
- ASD – Atrial septal defect
See all 229 cardiology abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.