Cardioversion is a method to restore an abnormal heart rhythm back to normal.
Cardioversion can be done using an energy shock (electric cardioversion) or medications (pharmacologic cardioversion).
ELECTRIC CARDIOVERSION
Electric cardioversion may use a device that can be placed inside (internal) or outside (external) the body.
External electric cardioversion uses a device called a defibrillator.
Emergency external electric cardioversion is used to treat any abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that is life threatening, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. Such a shock can be life saving.
External electric cardioversion may also be used when there is not an emergency.
After the external cardioversion, you may be given medicine to prevent blood clots and to help prevent the arrhythmia from coming back.
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a device that is usually placed underneath the skin of your upper chest. This is a semi-permanent implantation (devices may need to be replaced after 6 - 10 years).
See also: Implantable cardiac defibrillator
CARDIOVERSION USING DRUGS (PHARMACOLOGIC)
Cardioversion can be done using drugs that are taken by mouth or given through an intravenous line (IV). It can take several minutes to days for a successful cardioversion. If pharmacologic cardioversion is done in a hospital, your heart rate will be regularly checked. Although rare, cardioversion using drugs can be done outside the hospital. However, this requires close follow-up with a cardiologist.
As with electrical cardioversion, you may be given blood thinning medicines to prevent blood clots from forming and leaving the heart (which can cause a stroke).
COMPLICATIONS
Possible complications of cardioversion are uncommon, but may include:
People who perform external cardioversion may be shocked if the procedure is not done correctly. This can cause heart rhythm problems, pain, and even death.