What Is Cardioversion?

Potential Reasons For The Procedure

As mentioned, this procedure may be used to treat heart rhythm issues such as atrial fibrillation. Overall, it appears to treat irregular heartbeats and heartbeats that are too fast. It seems to be recommended when a patient's issue increases their stroke risk. If their symptoms do not interfere with their activities and are only mild, the benefits may not outweigh the risks.

This procedure may be performed in an emergency, should it be necessary. Most patients, however, appear to have a scheduled appointment for cardioversion. Chemical cardioversion, of course, only includes medication to try correcting the issue. The electrical form may be what most individuals think of when they consider cardioversion. As mentioned, this one involves electric shocks. It appears to share some similarities with emergency defibrillation, though it is not the same.

Learn about how patients may be able to prepare for their procedure next.