Since the battery of the AICD is sealed within the main box of the AICD, that entire box must be replaced when the battery is low. Most modern AICDs use lithium batteries that need to be replaced every four to seven years, depending on how often an electric shock is discharged.
AICD batteries will not run out unexpectedly. When a battery is running low, the elective replacement indicator (ERI) is activated. Physicians can detect this activation during a routine office visit. AICDs will continue to function for approximately six months after the ERI is activated, allowing plenty of time to schedule an elective replacement procedure.
Aside from the ERI, changes may occur in the way the AICD operates that will indicate to a physician that the battery is beginning to run low. Patients may or may not be able to feel these changes in function. Regular communication with one’s physician is an important part of a successful experience with an AICD.
