cardioversion
A medical procedure that restores normal heart rhythm by delivering electrical shocks or medications to the heart.
Full Definition
Cardioversion is a treatment used to convert abnormal heart rhythms back to normal sinus rhythm. There are two types: electrical cardioversion, which uses synchronized electrical shocks delivered through paddles or patches placed on the chest, and pharmacological cardioversion, which uses antiarrhythmic medications. Electrical cardioversion is typically performed under sedation and is highly effective for converting atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and other supraventricular tachycardias. The procedure requires careful timing to avoid delivering shocks during vulnerable periods of the cardiac cycle.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from defibrillation by being synchronized with the QRS complex.
In Context
- "Emergency cardioversion was performed due to hemodynamic instability." — Emergency procedure note
- "The patient achieved sinus rhythm after synchronized cardioversion at 150 joules." — Procedure report