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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.
Understanding the Heart Defibrillator Machine
Introduction
A heart defibrillator is a medical device used to restore a normal heartbeat by delivering an electric shock to the heart. It is used in cases of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, particularly ventricular fibrillation (VF) and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT).
How Does a Defibrillator Work?
When the heart experiences an abnormal rhythm that could be fatal, the defibrillator: 1. Detects the irregular heartbeat using electrode pads. 2. Delivers an electric shock to reset the heart’s electrical activity, allowing it to resume a normal rhythm.
Types of Defibrillators
- Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) : These are portable devices designed for public use, where even non-medical personnel can operate them. They provide audio or visual prompts to guide the user.
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) : Surgically implanted in patients at high risk of sudden cardiac arrest, these devices continuously monitor heart rhythm and deliver shocks when needed.
- Wearable Cardioverter Defibrillators (WCDs) : Used by patients at temporary risk before a permanent solution like an ICD is required.
When is a Defibrillator Used?
A defibrillator is used mainly in emergencies such as: - Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) - Ventricular fibrillation (VF) - Severe ventricular tachycardia (VT) without a pulse
Role of Defibrillation in Cardiac Arrest Survival
Defibrillation is a crucial step in the Chain of Survival for cardiac arrests. A rapid response (within minutes) significantly improves survival chances. For every minute that defibrillation is delayed, survival chances decrease by approximately 7-10%.
Important Considerations & Risks
- Timely use is critical – Delayed defibrillation reduces survival rates.
- Not useful in all cases – It does not work for asystole (flatline) or a normal heartbeat.
- Potential risks – Skin burns, muscle spasms, and discomfort for ICD patients.
Summary
Defibrillators save lives by correcting dangerous arrhythmias through electrical shocks. Whether in public (AED), in medical settings, or through implanted (ICD) and wearable devices (WCD), their timely use can be life-saving.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care
- https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines
- https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/2020-aha-guidelines-for-cpr-and-ecc
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001194
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33081530/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000918
2. European Resuscitation Council Guidelines
- https://cprguidelines.eu/guidelines-2021
- https://www.erc.edu/
- https://cprguidelines.eu/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300957221000551
- https://www.resuscitationjournal.com/article/S0300-9572(21)00064-2/fulltext
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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.