What is internal cardioversion?
Internal cardioversion uses a device called an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). ICDs have two parts: a pulse generator and electrodes (wires). The generator is implanted under the skin, like a pacemaker. The wires connect the generator to the heart. If the heart starts beating incorrectly, the defibrillator will sense it and send an electrical shock to the heart, which returns the beat to normal. The life of a pulse generator battery varies from 5 to 8 years. This method is generally used in treating of ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation. These arrhythmias complications may also result in death, due to very high heart rates. Internal cardioversion is rarely used to cure atrial arrhythmias (upper heart chamber). What is Pharmacologic Cardioversion? Cardioversion performed through medication is known as pharmacologic cardioversion. Medicines are given through an intravenous line (IV) or by mouth to the patients. The procedure may require some minutes to day
