Heart rhythm treatment topic
Cardioversion in Reseda, CA
Cardioversion is a brief procedure in which a controlled electrical shock is delivered to the heart to convert an abnormal rhythm back toward a normal rhythm. Sometimes medications are used instead of, or in addition to, a shock. A physician decides whether cardioversion is appropriate.
What cardioversion is
Recovered Treatments education defined cardioversion as delivering a controlled electric shock to convert an abnormal heart rhythm back to a normal rhythm. In emergency settings, the shock may be delivered through external pads. Planned cardioversion is a scheduled procedure with anesthesia or sedation as directed by the team.
Sometimes drugs are used to achieve cardioversion. That choice is individualized.
How this differs from an ICD or emergency defibrillation
An implanted defibrillator can deliver shocks automatically if it detects a dangerous ventricular rhythm. Emergency defibrillation is used for cardiac arrest. Planned cardioversion is typically discussed for certain atrial arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, when a physician wants to try to restore a more organized rhythm.
This page does not schedule procedures.
Why it may be discussed
If a rapid or irregular atrial rhythm is causing symptoms or other medical concern, a physician may discuss rhythm control. Cardioversion is one option along with medications and, for some patients, ablation.
Stroke-prevention medicines, when they are part of AFib or flutter care, remain a separate decision and are not stopped because of this page.
What patients can expect to discuss
If cardioversion is planned, the team should explain fasting, medications (including blood thinners), anesthesia, and the chance the abnormal rhythm could return. Prep instructions must come from the treating physician.
Success is not guaranteed. Repeat cardioversion is sometimes considered.
When to contact a physician
Call the Reseda office if you were referred to discuss cardioversion. Call 911 for chest pain, fainting, or stroke symptoms.
Related topics
Atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and cardiac ablation pages provide additional educational context.