electrical storm
Multiple episodes of ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation requiring repeated interventions within 24 hours.
Full Definition
A life-threatening emergency cardiology condition defined as three or more episodes of sustained ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, or appropriate ICD shocks within a 24-hour period. This condition represents electrical instability of the myocardium and carries high mortality risk due to hemodynamic compromise and potential for sudden cardiac death. Management requires aggressive medical therapy including antiarrhythmic drugs, beta-blockade, and treatment of precipitating factors such as ischemia or electrolyte abnormalities. Patients typically require intensive care monitoring and may need emergency catheterization or electrophysiology intervention.
Usage
Usage note: Specific threshold of three episodes in 24 hours distinguishes this from isolated recurrent arrhythmias.
In Context
- "The patient experienced electrical storm with six episodes of ventricular fibrillation requiring defibrillation." — ICU progress note
- "Electrical storm was successfully suppressed with high-dose amiodarone and metoprolol." — Cardiology consultation