Einstein Medical Center using new ICD

PHILADELPHIA - March 7, 2013 (WPVI) -- Doctors at Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia are using a new kind of implantable cardiac defibrillator, or ICD.

You've probably heard the expression "less is more" and that is why these doctors say they like the new technology.

The new single lead ICD can detect dangerous heart rhythms in both the lower chamber, or ventricleand the upper chamber, or atrium.

It will also deliver a shock if necessary.

Other devices use two leads to monitor the chambers, Dr. Sumeet Mainigi says the more hardware, the greater the risk for problems.

So he says the single lead is safer.

It goes to the ventricle, but also has electrodes in the upper chamber to detect problems.

"We're getting the benefits of a two lead device without any of the risks associated with it," Dr. Mainigi said.

The device also comes with a cellular monitor.

Doctors are sent a signal if there's a problem.

"We know about it immediately. We get a phone call or email as soon as there is an issuem," Dr. Mainigi said.

The device is made by Biotronik. It was just approved in the United States, but it has been used for several years in Europe.

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