A Hazard of Implantable Defibrillators

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are commonly used in the prevention of sudden cardiac death, and are becoming more common at autopsy. We report an accidental discharge of an implantable defibrillator at autopsy. Procedures for avoiding this potentially hazardous situation include deactivation of the device and use of shock-resistant autopsy apparel. Methods for deactivation of the ICD using a magnet or device programmer are outlined and discussed.