Electrical cardioversion

Electrical cardioversion is a medical procedure that restores a normal heart rhythm in people with certain types of abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias). It is a type of cardioversion which uses electricity to reset the heart's rhythm back to its regular pattern. The procedure is done by sending electric shocks to your heart through electrodes placed on your chest.

Procedure

The procedure of electrical cardioversion involves the delivery of a timed electrical shock to the heart, using a device called a defibrillator. The defibrillator monitors the heart's rhythm and delivers shocks to the heart muscle to restore a normal rhythm. The shocks are delivered through pads or paddles that are placed on the patient's chest. The patient is usually sedated or anaesthetized during the procedure to minimize discomfort.

Indications

Electrical cardioversion is used to treat heart rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and ventricular tachycardia. It may be used when medication is not effective or not tolerated by the patient. It may also be used in emergency situations to restore a normal heart rhythm in patients with unstable arrhythmias.

Risks

While electrical cardioversion is generally safe, it does carry some risks. These include skin burns, worsening of the arrhythmia, blood clots, stroke, and heart damage. The risk of complications is higher in older adults and those with other heart or health conditions.

Aftercare

After the procedure, the patient's heart rhythm is monitored to ensure that it has returned to normal. The patient may also need to take medication to help maintain a normal heart rhythm. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are necessary to monitor the patient's condition.

See also

• Cardiology
• Defibrillator
• Atrial fibrillation
• Atrial flutter
• Ventricular tachycardia