ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 5

Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators and the Pathologist: Comment and Cautionary Notes
Veinot, JP
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute and The Ottawa Civic Hospital, Ontario

Bourke, ME
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute and The Ottawa Civic Hospital, Ontario

Green, M
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute and The Ottawa Civic Hospital, Ontario

Walley, VM
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute and The Ottawa Civic Hospital, Ontario

Stinson, WA
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute and The Ottawa Civic Hospital, Ontario

(Received 23 January 1998; accepted 16 February 1998)

Abstract

This paper briefly reviews the components of, the clinical uses of, the techniques to place, and the complications related to implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs). Information useful in the specific identification of ICDs is presented. A series of recommendations for the autopsy examination or postmortem explantation of ICDs by the pathologist is given. Because of the serious risk of injury to the pathologist possible with postmortem discharges of ICDs which have not been deactivated, and because of the risk of device explosion if the ICD is incinerated, a number of cautionary notes are provided. A brief case with occurrence of accidental postmortem discharge of an active ICD is also presented.

Keywords:
forensic science, forensic pathology, sudden death, heart, arrhythmias, pathology, defibrillators, pacemakers, prevention, treatment

Paper ID: JFS14343J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14343J
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