What is synchronized cardioversion?

synchronized cardioversion is a precisely timed introduction of electricity into the heart to restore normal heart rhythm. The cardioversion essentially refers to the heart conversion back to the sinus rhythm and synchronized refers to the way this procedure is timed during the heart rhythm. There are other forms of cardioversion, such as the use of drugs to restore normal heart rhythm. This treatment should also be distinguished from defibrillation because it uses much less electricity.

either pharmaceutical or synchronized cardioversion are the main treatments of conditions such as atrial fibrillation or flutter. The advantage of using electricity is that it avoids the side effects of many anti-arrhythmic drugs. The only procedure may also be a rapid treatment of some arrytmia, although it may not have permanent results.

On the other hand, it is a painful acceptance of electric shock to the chest. Most patients who have synchronized cardioversion must be during it Anesteetized to reduce pain. Not all heart patients are candidates for sedation. In addition, they may be those who have undergone this procedure, risk by developing blood clots in the chambers, so they often have to either use an anticoagulant for about a month before the procedure, or have a transesophageal echocardiogram.

This risks aside, this medical procedure has a long history of use and has been improved by newer, more accurate monitoring devices. In many cases, the patient monitors the electrocardiogram (ECG) and is connected directly to the crashes that bring shock. These devices signal a physician, usually an electrophysiologist, performing the procedure if they deliver the current accurately. Continuation of ECG shows whether the sinus rhythm has been reached.

Risk level in the undergoing synchronizoThe cardioversion should be compared with the result. Only about 20% of people still have a normal sinus rhythm during the year from the procedure and it is not uncommon for patients to need more than one electric cardioversion. Patients may still require arrhythmia drugs to prevent future arrathmia.

Some patients are not good candidates for this procedure. It tends to work less efficiently if people have long -term arrathmia problems, or if they have other heart problems such as sick valves or enlarged hearts. People with chamber arrrhythmia do not even respond well to synchronized cardioversion. Patients should discuss with an electrophysiologist about their condition and possibilities to see if this form of cardioversion or other treatment is the best choice.