What is electrical cardioversion?

Electrical cardioversion is a procedure in which the doctor sends an electrical current through your heart to correct an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia).

An alternative to this procedure is to take medication to try to convert the heart to a normal rhythm. The doctor may have already prescribed an anti-arrhythmia medication before the procedure to see if you can tolerate it. Another alternative is to choose not to have treatment, recognizing the risks of your condition. You should ask your doctor about these choices.

How do I prepare for electrical cardioversion?

Plan for your care and recovery after the operation.

Follow any instructions your doctor may give you. Eat a light meal, such as soup or salad, the night before the procedure. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight and the morning before the procedure. Do not even drink coffee, tea, or water.

What happens during the procedure?

A tranquilizer and a general anesthetic are given. General anesthesia will relax your muscles and make you feel as if you're in a deep sleep. It will prevent you from feeling pain during the operations. The doctor puts metal paddles on your chest and back and runs an electric current through your chest for a fraction of a second.

What happens after the procedure?

You will be monitored in the recovery room or coronary care unit for a short time and then returned to a regular room. In several hours, you may be able to walk around and may go home later that day or the following day. The doctor may prescribe drugs to help your heart keep its new rhythm.

Ask your doctor what steps you should take and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

Your heart may beat in a normal pattern, reducing the discomfort and stress on your heart.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• There are some risks when you have general anesthesia. Discuss these risks with your doctor.

• You could have further problems with your heart rhythm. The doctor may need to treat these problems during or after the procedure.

• This procedure may not be successful and your heart rhythm may not change.

• The rhythm may change to a regular one and sometime in the future (minutes, hours, days, or even years later) go back to its previous irregular rhythm.

• Your heart could develop a more dangerous rhythm or possibly even stop.

• You may develop a small area of skin burn where the paddles are applied.

• A blood clot may become dislodged and cause a stroke.

You should ask your doctor how these risks apply to you.

When should I call the doctor?

Call the doctor immediately if your heart rhythm changes back to a rapid, irregular rhythm.

Call the doctor during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.

• You want to make another appointment.