Living with a pacemaker or ICD:
With advances in technology, implanted pacemakers and ICDs generally last several years (depending upon usage and the type of device) and, in most cases, allow a child to lead a normal life. In addition, advances in device circuitry and insulation have reduced the interference risk from machinery, such as microwaves, which in the past may have altered or otherwise affected these surgically implanted cardiac devices. Even so, certain precautions must be taken into consideration when a child has an implanted pacemaker or ICD.