-
We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
What is a Cardioverter?
Introduction
A cardioverter is a medical device used to restore a normal heart rhythm in patients with severe arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. It works by delivering a controlled electric shock to the heart, which resets its electrical activity and helps it beat normally again.
How Does It Work?
The cardioverter is a key component of a procedure known as cardioversion. Depending on the condition, it can be used externally or implanted: - External Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ECV): Used in emergency situations, it delivers an electric shock through paddles placed on the chest. - Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): A small device surgically implanted under the skin that monitors and corrects dangerous heart rhythms automatically.
When is Cardioversion Used?
Cardioversion is used in conditions such as: - Atrial fibrillation (AFib): An irregular and often rapid heartbeat that increases stroke risk. - Atrial flutter: A fast but regular abnormal rhythm in the atria. - Ventricular tachycardia: A dangerously fast heart rate that originates in the lower heart chambers.
Risks and Precautions
While generally safe, there are some risks associated with cardioversion, such as: - Blood clots that may cause a stroke (patients may need to take anticoagulants beforehand). - Temporary skin burns from the electrodes. - Rare complications related to anesthesia.
Conclusion
A cardioverter is a life-saving device for managing serious heart arrhythmias. Whether used externally in emergencies or implanted for continuous monitoring, it plays a crucial role in modern cardiology.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001193
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29084733/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Sudden Cardiac Death
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405500X22010945
-
If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.