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ICD and fitness to fly (flying)

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

Condition

Lay explanation

Restriction/guidance

Following ICD implantation

If you have had an ICD then there is a risk of the lung being punctured during the insertion procedure. If it has not been punctured you can fly after 2 days. If it has then you should wait until 2 weeks after it has fully healed. In addition you should not fly after the ICD has delivered a shock until your condition is considered stable.

Fly after 2 days if no pneumothorax. In the event of a pneumothorax flying should be deferred for 2 weeks following complete resolution. Rhythm instability should be treated.

Note that these are only guidelines and each airline has its own regulations and medical standards.

Reference:

  • British Heart Foundation (September 2010). Factfile - Fitness to fly for passengers with cardiovascular disease.
  • International Air Transport Association. Medical Manual 11th Edition (2018).

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