Ice damage to trees can be devastating. However, there are pruning methods that can save a tree and avoid having to take it out. There are all sorts of factors that can determine if your tree is going to sustain damage or whether after it has seen damage if the entire tree has to be removed. Remember, patience and an evaluation for a certified tree arborist is critical. Rushing to remove a tree might be premature. Pruning and health care can save a tree that is important to the landscape.
Prevention is also important. Having a cable or a bolt put into a tree can avoid a lot of the damage from ice and snow and even severe summer storms.