Cardioversion Procedures
Treatment for Irregular Heartbeats in Fremont
Cardioversions are highly effective treatments for arrhythmia that should
return an irregular heartbeat to normal. The most common disorders it
treats are atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter, which interfere with
the electrical signals sent to and from the heart. Cardioversion is usually
a scheduled procedure, where a doctor recommends the treatment and the
patient has time to prepare. In cases where a doctor believes the irregular
heart beat puts the patient at high risk for a stroke, they may recommend
the procedure begin right away.
Preparing for the Operation
Doctors will typically schedule the cardioversion a few days after deciding
the operation is necessary so that patients can do a few things to prepare:
- Abstain from eating or drinking for 12 hours beforehand
-
A
transesophageal echocardiogram may be recommended so the doctor can thoroughly examine the heart before
the operation
- If patients are diagnosed with blood clots, the physician should prescribe
blood thinners to remove the clots and reduce risk of complications
How it Works
When the time comes to perform the cardioversion, electrodes will be placed
on your chest. You will likely be given sedatives and medication to reduce
discomfort during the operation. A defibrillator will track your heart
rate and deliver electrical shocks at key intervals that should restore
the heart to a normal rhythm.
The medications should eliminate any potential pain. Most patients come
out of the surgery unaware they even received electrical shocks.
When the procedure is over, a doctor or nurse will monitor you for about
an hour. If everything seems normal, you will probably be allowed to go
home and rest. Medications may be prescribed and a diet recommended to
ensure that the heart stays healthy for years to come.
Contact Washington Township Medical Foundation if you believe you have
an irregular heart beat and could benefit from a cardioversion or other
electrophysiology procedure.