automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
Pronunciation: A-I-C-D
Also written as: AICD — automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
Legacy term for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, emphasizing the device's automatic detection and treatment capabilities.
Full Definition
Automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD) is an older terminology for what is now commonly called an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). The term emphasized the device's automatic capability to detect and treat life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias without patient or physician intervention. These devices continuously monitor heart rhythm and can deliver antitachycardia pacing, cardioversion, or defibrillation shocks when dangerous arrhythmias are detected. While the acronym AICD is still occasionally used in clinical documentation, current practice favors the simpler ICD terminology. Modern devices also include pacemaker functions and sophisticated programming options.
Usage
Usage note: Legacy term; current preference is ICD or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator.
In Context
- "The patient received an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for secondary prevention following cardiac arrest." — Operative report
- "AICD interrogation revealed appropriate shock delivery for sustained ventricular tachycardia termination." — Device clinic note