Electrical Cardioversion

What is an Electric Cardioversion?

Electric Cardioversion is a procedure used to treat patients with atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, or tachycardia where an electric shock is delivered to the heart to convert the irregular heart rate back to a normal rhythm.  Cardioversion is used both in emergency and non-emergency situations.  In emergency situations, electrical cardioversion is used if patients are experiencing a fast abnormal heart rate along with low blood pressure, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or loss of consciousness.

How is an Electric Cardioversion performed?

This procedure is done with special electrodes or paddles used to transport the electric shock through the chest wall to the heart.  The pads are connected to a defibrillator.  This procedure is usually done in a hospital or lab setting.  A nurse will be present to monitor the patient's breathing, heart rhythm and blood pressure while the electric shock is delivered.  The shock can be painful which is why the patient is normally administered a sedation.  After the first shock, the patient typically awakens quickly without any recollection.  Additional shocks may be given at a higher energy level if the first shock does not convert the heart back into normal rhythm.  This procedure is a safe and effective way to restore an irregular heart rhythm back to normal.