Medtronic devices are programmed by the 9790 Programmer, a lightweight, portable computer with a built in printer. A device similar in looks to a computer mouse is placed on top of the ICD and the ICD is then interrogated by the programmer right through the skin. It reads the ICD's memory and prints out information as to when and if the device sent a schock to the heart, paced the heart back to a normal rhythm, or even just sensed the beginning of an abnormal rhythm. It also gathers important information on the status of the battery. The battery is built into the ICD and when it runs down a new ICD must be implanted.
Battery life is normally around five years.
The Doctor using the programmer can also speed up or slow down a person's heartbeat through this device, which he often does while checking or changing the settings. This is not an ICD sight, but it is a must for ICD patients and anyone who suffers from a serious illness or disease. This web sight has all the information on Medic Alert services and bracelets. Emergency Medical Personnel are trained to look for these bracelets, which are engraved with important medical information which can save your life in an emergency situation. I don't particularly care for the way the bracelets latch, so I bought a twist metal watch band and it works perfect.