What Is Cardioversion?

Possible Procedure Risks

It seems as if this procedure, if it is performed in a hospital, does not come with severe complications. However, there may still be an issue related to blood clots. Patients with heart rhythm issues may be at a higher risk of blood clots. If they have a clot and undergo cardioversion, the procedure may dislodge the clot if it is in their heart. A dislodged clot may then begin to circulate, potentially outside the heart. The complications from a dislodged clot may depend on where it circulates. Examples of possible complications can include stroke, pulmonary embolism, and a heart attack. Doctors may need to screen patients for blood clots before performing this procedure.

Some patients may also develop new issues with their heart rhythm after cardioversion. However, this may be quite rare. It also seems as if the complication can be corrected fairly quickly. If patients received electrical cardioversion, doctors might be able to find the new issue and fix it before the sedative wears off. Finally, there appears to be a risk of burns on the skin where the electrodes were attached as well.