Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a method of inserting an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator within a patient, the method including the steps of providing a cardioverter-defibrillator canister having at least a portion of the cardioverter-defibrillator canister being non planar to maintain the cardioverter-defibrillator canister in a predetermined relationship with respect to a patient's heart, subcutaneously over a patient's ribcage; making a single incision into the patient; and advancing the cardioverter-defibrillator canister through the single incision and subcutaneously over the patient's ribcage.