Related Experiment Videos
Direct current cardioversion of established atrial fibrillation
1Division of Cardiology, University of Marseille, Centre Hospitalo, Universitaire Nord, France.
Clinical Cardiology
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Restoring sinus rhythm in chronic atrial fibrillation (AF) is key. A new internal cardioversion technique shows promise for patients unresponsive to external methods, potentially reducing stroke risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Restoring sinus rhythm is a primary goal for chronic atrial fibrillation (AF) patients.
- External direct current cardioversion is standard but has variable success rates (20-90%) influenced by etiology.
- Traditional determinants for cardioversion are being re-evaluated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel technique of internal cardioversion for chronic atrial fibrillation.
- To assess the efficacy and safety of internal cardioversion in patients who failed external cardioversion.
Main Methods:
- A new technique involving direct current shocks delivered within the right atrium was described.
- Patient outcomes were assessed following this internal cardioversion procedure.
Main Results:
- Initial results show an 83% success rate for cardioversion.
- At 12 months, 46% of patients maintained sinus rhythm.
- This method offers an alternative for patients refractory to external cardioversion.
Conclusions:
- Internal cardioversion is a promising alternative for chronic atrial fibrillation patients.
- This technique may improve long-term sinus rhythm maintenance and reduce embolic complications.