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Related Experiment Videos

Is the automatic atrial defibrillator a promising approach?

J C Griffin1, G M Ayers, J Adams

  • 1InControl Inc., Redmond, WA 98052, USA.

Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology
|December 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary

Atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder, can be treated with low-energy electrical shocks. Implantable devices show promise for managing recurring episodes of this condition.

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Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Electrophysiology

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation is a prevalent arrhythmia with significant healthcare resource utilization.
  • It causes loss of atrial contraction and impairs cardiac rate control.
  • Previous animal studies showed feasibility of intravenous atrial defibrillation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of low-energy atrial defibrillation.
  • To explore the potential of implantable devices for managing drug-refractory atrial fibrillation.

Main Methods:

  • Intravenous electrode placement for atrial defibrillation.
  • Delivery of low-energy electrical shocks synchronized to the R wave.
  • Assessment of shock efficacy in converting atrial fibrillation.
  • Evaluation of safety, particularly concerning preceding RR intervals.

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Main Results:

  • Low-energy shocks were effective in converting atrial fibrillation.
  • Shocks were safe when delivered synchronously to the R wave and without short preceding RR intervals.
  • Preliminary data suggests potential benefit from small implanted devices for recurrent, refractory cases.

Conclusions:

  • Low-energy atrial defibrillation is effective and safe under specific conditions.
  • Implantable devices represent a promising therapeutic option for patients with persistent, drug-refractory atrial fibrillation.