Related Experiment Videos
Effect of epicardial patch electrodes on transthoracic defibrillation
1Department of Medicine, New York Hospital-Cornell University Medical Center, NY 10021.
Circulation
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Epicardial patch electrodes used after surgery for malignant ventricular tachycardia (VT) may increase defibrillation thresholds. This study in dogs found that electrode orientation and size impact transthoracic defibrillation success.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Epicardial patch electrodes are implanted during surgery for malignant ventricular tachycardia (VT) to improve survival.
- Patients with noninducible VT may face challenges with transthoracic defibrillation due to insulated patch electrodes.
- Silicone rubber insulation on patch electrodes can increase transthoracic defibrillation threshold (DFT).
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that epicardial patch electrodes elevate transthoracic defibrillation threshold (DFT).
- To assess the impact of patch electrode orientation on DFT.
- To evaluate the effect of patch electrode size on DFT.
Main Methods:
- Determined DFT in mongrel dogs using epicardial patch electrodes.
- Investigated perpendicular orientation of small (30 cm2) and large (53 cm2) patch electrodes.
- Examined parallel orientation of small patch electrodes on ventricular surfaces.
Main Results:
- Epicardial patch electrodes were found to elevate transthoracic DFT.
- Electrode orientation and size significantly influenced DFT.
- Specific findings on how orientation and size affected DFT were detailed in the full study.
Conclusions:
- Epicardial patch electrodes can increase transthoracic defibrillation thresholds.
- Optimizing patch electrode placement and size is crucial for effective defibrillation.
- Further research may inform strategies to mitigate increased DFT in VT patients.