LES TRAITEMENTS

PROGRAMMED EXTERNAL ELECTRIC SHOCK

What is an external electric shock?

External electric shock (cardioversion) is a medical procedure that voluntarily and briefly passes an electrical current through your heart when it is too fast due to certain tachycardias (especially atrial fibrillation) in order to restore a normal heart rhythm. The current is applied to the chest via two metal or self-adhesive paddles connected to a device called an external defibrillator.

Performed in some cases as an emergency, cardioversion can also be performed in a programmed manner to stop a tachycardia that persists and bring the heart rhythm back to normal.

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Before the external electric shock

− You must be, except in special cases, on effective anticoagulant treatment, 

− A transesophageal cardiac ultrasound is sometimes necessary, especially if your anticoagulant treatment is deemed insufficient, 

− You must see the anaesthetist in consultation before the shock 

− You need to have a blood test

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Realization of external electric shock 

− You must be fasting 

− The external electric shock is performed during a brief general anesthesia 

− One or more electric shocks will be delivered to restore the normal rhythm 

− After the shock, you will be monitored in the recovery room for one or two hours

Are there any risks associated with external electric shock?

The risks are as follows: 

− Those of general anaesthesia 

− Superficial burning of the skin on the chest where the paddles are applied 

− Abnormally slow heart rate 

− Another heart rhythm disorder

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A thromboembolic event due to the migration of a blood clot present in the heart chambers, including a stroke. This risk is controlled by the use of anticoagulant therapy. 

− If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator, the device may occasionally malfunction after the external electric shock. 

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What are the benefits of the external electric shock? 

− The external electric shock makes it possible to restore a normal rhythm in about 90% of cases. The success rate is lower if the atrial fibrillation has lasted for more than a year, if there have already been many episodes of atrial fibrillation, and if there is significant dilation of the atria, heart failure, or abnormal heart valves. Very early recurrences of the arrhythmia can be observed after an effective shock.

Restoring a normal rhythm is intended to reduce your symptoms. 

− The external electric shock does not prevent recurrence of the arrhythmia. An appropriate treatment may be offered to you. 

− The resumption of professional activities or daily life will be explained to you in a way adapted to your personal situation by the doctor and his team. There are patient associations that can also listen to you.

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