Cardioversion Treatment

Cardioversion is a vital procedure designed to reignite the heart’s rhythm when it beats irregularly or too fast. This powerful intervention is particularly effective for treating atrial fibrillation, the most common form of arrhythmia.

Cardiac electrophysiologists use this treatment as a lifesaver in critical situations where ventricular arrhythmia may cause a sudden cardiac arrest. This procedure works in two ways:

Chemical cardioversion relies on medications to soothe an overactive heart, helping it return to a more balanced state. On the other hand, electrical cardioversion harnesses the power of technology with a specialised machine. The device delivers brief electric shocks through electrodes placed on your chest, bringing your heartbeat back to normal.

For many individuals, the results of cardioversion are enduring. However, some may experience a return of their irregular heartbeat within days or weeks following the treatment. In such cases, repeat cardioversions can be conducted. If the rhythm remains unstable, patients might be sent for catheter ablation, a procedure that delicately removes the heart tissue responsible for the irregular heartbeat.

Cardioversion can correct many types of arrhythmias, including:

• Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter
• Ventricular tachycardia.
• Ventricular fibrillation.

Before undergoing cardioversion, you might need to undergo specific tests at the hospital. These assessments will assist your doctor in determining if cardioversion is suitable for you. Possible tests may include the following.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) measures your heart’s electrical activity and rhythm.
• Echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan that provides a clear image of your cardiac muscles, valves, and heart’s working capacity.
• Transoesophageal echocardiogram - This ultrasound sensor is inserted into your oesophagus to check for blood clots in your heart.

An electrical cardioversion requires approximately three hours and hence is considered an outpatient procedure. Before the procedure, you will be hooked up to an IV catheter to deliver the required medication to keep you comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.

Next, your doctor will tape electrodes onto your chest and back, if necessary. These electrodes are connected to a defibrillator machine that monitors your heartbeat and delivers quick pulses of electrical current to your heart. These impulses interrupt your abnormal heart rhythm and restore it to normalcy. Some patients may require more than one shock to restore a regular rhythm.

The treatment itself may take only five minutes. However, the entire process, including the setup and sedation, may take about half an hour to 45 minutes. Afterwards, you will be moved to a recovery room and monitored for about an hour. Most people can go home the same day.