A Unified Three-Step Mirror-Image Protocol for ECG, Echocardiography, and Cardioversion in Dextrocardia: A Case...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Electrophysiology

Background:

• Dextrocardia with situs inversus totalis complicates standard cardiovascular procedures.
• Existing guidance for specific procedures (ECG, echo, cardioversion) is fragmented.
• Integrated management strategies for these patients are lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a unified management approach for cardiovascular procedures in a patient with dextrocardia and situs inversus totalis.
• To demonstrate the feasibility and safety of a mirror-image configuration across multiple cardiac interventions.

Main Methods:

• A case report of a male patient in his 50s with dextrocardia and situs inversus totalis presenting with atrial fibrillation.
• Application of a mirror-image configuration for electrocardiography, transthoracic echocardiography, and cardioversion pad placement.
• Electrical cardioversion was performed to restore sinus rhythm.

Main Results:

• Successful restoration of sinus rhythm using the mirror-image approach.
• No complications were reported during or after the procedures.
• The unified mirror-image strategy proved safe and reproducible.

Conclusions:

• A consistent mirror-image approach across electrocardiography, echocardiography, and cardioversion is effective for patients with dextrocardia and situs inversus totalis.
• This unified strategy offers a simple, reproducible framework for clinicians.
• Facilitates safe and effective management in emergency and primary care settings.