Cardioversion

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Cardioversion

Cardioversion (/kɑːrdiəˈvɜːrʒən/) is a medical procedure that restores a normal heart rhythm in people with certain types of abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias). The term originates from the Greek words "kardia" (heart) and "version" (turning).

Procedure

Cardioversion is usually done by sending electric shocks to your heart through electrodes placed on your chest. It's also possible to do cardioversion with medications. This procedure is usually scheduled in advance but can be done in emergency situations.

Types of Cardioversion

There are two types of cardioversion: electrical and pharmacological.

  • Electrical cardioversion is a procedure in which an electric current is used to reset the heart's rhythm back to its regular pattern. The low-voltage electric current enters the body through patches applied to the chest wall.
  • Pharmacological cardioversion is a procedure that uses medications, called antiarrhythmics, to restore the heart's normal rhythm. These medications may be given orally or intravenously.

Related Terms

  • Arrhythmia - A condition in which the heart beats with an irregular or abnormal rhythm.
  • Atrial fibrillation - A quivering or irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.
  • Antiarrhythmics - A group of medications that are used to treat abnormal heart rhythms.

Risks

Cardioversion is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it does carry some risk. Potential risks include dislodged blood clots, which can cause a stroke, and skin burns from the patches used in electrical cardioversion.

See Also

External links

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