What are the Advantages of Subcutaneous Defibrillators?

Subcutaneous defibrillators are newer devices that do not make direct contact with the heart muscle. Instead of being implanted into the bloodstream, they are placed beneath the skin.

These devices are able to detect abnormal heart rhythms and deliver therapy without interacting directly with the heart. Because of this, they eliminate the need to place wires (or leads) into the heart muscle.

Avoiding leads inside the heart can reduce the risk of lead breakage over time and bloodstream infections, both of which can make these devices much more difficult to manage.