Electrical Cardioversion Specialist

What is electrical cardioversion?

Electrical cardioversion is a procedure that the team at Cary Cardiology, P.A., uses to reset your heart rhythm. It involves sending a low-voltage electrical current through your heart.

Electrical cardioversion is a non-invasive outpatient procedure taking place under sedation, so you feel comfortable and relaxed.

Why might I need electrical cardioversion?

Electrical cardioversion is an effective, non-surgical method of treating a form of arrhythmia called atrial fibrillation (AFib).

AFib affects the atria – the upper chambers of your heart. It's due to a disruption of the electrical signals regulating your heart’s rhythm. As a result, your heart quivers rather than beating properly, causing the rapid, irregular heartbeat typical of AFib.

The Cary Cardiology, P.A., team, can often successfully treat AFib using medications and lifestyle changes. However, if these don't work, electrical cardioversion is a good alternative. 

Your provider may also perform electrical cardioversion if your atrial fibrillation is causing an excessively rapid heartbeat and you need an urgent reset.

What happens when I have electrical cardioversion?

After giving you a sedative, your provider puts special pads on your chest to transmit the electrical current to your heart. After delivering the current, your provider checks that your heartbeat is returning to a more regular speed and rhythm.

Once the team is happy that the treatment is working, you stay under observation while recovering from the sedative; then, you can go home. You should have someone drive you home, and you’ll need to take the entire day off work. 

How long do the effects of electrical cardioversion last?

The results of your electrical cardioversion treatment for atrial fibrillation can vary and may depend on the severity of your condition. You might experience normal heart function straight after the procedure, with the effects lasting for hours, weeks, or months.

The long-term outlook following electrical cardioversion is similarly hard to predict. The underlying cause of your AFib can significantly affect the length of time you benefit from treatment.

If electrical cardioversion treatment restores a more normal heart rhythm for a few months, then you can return to Cary Cardiology, P.A., for further sessions as needed. If the benefits only last a short time, you might need to consider other options.

To find out more about electrical cardioversion treatment for atrial fibrillation, call Cary Cardiology, P.A., or book an appointment online today.