Implantable cardioverter defibrillators are commonly used to treat patients with ARVD/C. These devices continuously monitor the heartbeat and automatically deliver a small electrical shock to the heart if an irregular heart beat or rapid sustained heart rhythm occurs. This may cause a momentary discomfort, which is described by some patients as being “kicked in the chest.”

ICDs also can function as pacemakers and can treat both slow and fast rhythms. They should be checked every three to six months and may need to be replaced every four to six years.