Defibrillation Treatment in Mumbai

Defibrillation involves using an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm when a life-threatening arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm) occurs in the heart's lower chambers (ventricles). Also referred to as electrical cardioversion, defibrillation is most effective when administered by a healthcare professional as quickly as possible after the arrhythmia begins.

Defibrillation can be used to treat:

• Ventricular tachycardia (a very rapid heartbeat) without a pulse.
• Ventricular fibrillation (the heart muscle quivering) is a common cause of sudden cardiac arrest.

Alternative Names

Defibrillation, a critical procedure used to restore normal heart rhythm, is known by several alternative names, often used interchangeably in both medical and everyday contexts. "Defibrillator treatment" refers to the application of a device that delivers an electric shock to the heart in an attempt to correct arrhythmias. "Cardiac defibrillation" highlights the focus on the heart, underscoring its role in treating life-threatening heart conditions. Another commonly used term is "electric shock therapy," which emphasises the method by which electrical energy is used to reset the heart's electrical activity. These terms all describe the same process, though they may be used in different settings or to convey specific aspects of the treatment.

Types of Defibrillators

There are various types of defibrillators currently in use. These include the manual external defibrillator, manual internal defibrillator, automated external defibrillator (AED), implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), and wearable cardiac defibrillator.

Manual External Defibrillator

• Requires significant expertise and training.
• Found in hospitals and some ambulances with skilled personnel.
• Works with an ECG to assess heart rhythm.
• Shock voltage and timing are manually adjusted using external paddles on the chest.

Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)

• Also known as an automatic internal cardiac defibrillator (AICD).
• Continuously monitors the heart, similar to a pacemaker.
• Detects abnormal rhythms like ventricular fibrillation, tachycardia, and atrial fibrillation.
• Automatically adjusts shock voltage to restore normal heart function when needed.

Manual Internal Defibrillator

• Uses internal paddles to deliver shocks directly to the heart.
• Primarily used during open-chest surgeries in operating rooms.
• Developed after 1959.

Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

• Uses computer technology to analyse heart rhythm.
• Determines if the rhythm is shockable.
• Commonly found in medical facilities, airports, schools, sports venues, and public buildings.

Wearable Cardiac Defibrillator

• A portable version of the AICD.
• Designed for patients not in immediate need of an AICD.
• Monitors the patient’s heart 24/7 and only works when worn.
• Delivers a shock when necessary to restore heart function.

Preparation for Defibrillation Procedure

• Your first responder or healthcare provider will keep doing CPR until a defibrillator is ready and charged.
• When they’re about to deliver the shock, they’ll make sure no one is touching the person receiving the shock (or their bed).
• An automated external defibrillator (AED) — found in airports and other public places — can examine your heart’s rhythm to figure out if it’s the type of arrhythmia that needs a shock. It charges itself and then gives verbal instructions for using it.

During The Procedure 

Your healthcare provider will follow these steps during a cardiac defibrillation procedure:

• Place two defibrillator paddles or adhesive pads (attached to the defibrillator) on your chest. One pad or paddle will be placed just below your right shoulder, and the other below your left nipple. The pads contain conductive material to prevent burns, but your provider will apply additional conducting material to your chest before using the paddles.
• For adhesive pads, the provider will press a button on the defibrillator to release the charge. When using paddles, they will press the button on each paddle simultaneously.
• Defibrillation briefly halts the heart's movement to allow it to generate an electrical impulse and restore a normal rhythm. Essentially, defibrillation helps restart the heart.

After The Procedure

Your provider will perform CPR for two more minutes, check for a pulse, and assess if your heart rhythm is normal. If needed, they will continue CPR and administer another shock. They may also give medications such as epinephrine or amiodarone if defibrillation is not effective.

If you're still unresponsive after blood circulation is restored, your body temperature may need to be lowered to between 89.6 and 96.8 degrees Fahrenheit (32 to 36 degrees Celsius). Once stable, you might require cardiac catheterisation.

Risks and Complications of Defibrillation

• Inducing Ventricular Fibrillation: Defibrillating someone who doesn't have ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation could unintentionally trigger these life-threatening arrhythmias, potentially leading to cardiac arrest.
• Heart Injury: The electrical shock from defibrillation may damage the heart muscle, especially if applied incorrectly or at the wrong time.
• Burns: While defibrillator pads are designed to prevent burns, improper placement or malfunction can still cause skin burns at the electrode sites.
• Tissue Damage: The shock may cause damage to tissues surrounding the heart, particularly with repeated or improper defibrillation.
• Incorrect Shocks: Misdiagnosing the heart's rhythm could lead to unnecessary shocks, which could harm the patient, especially if the rhythm is not shockable.
• Rib Fractures: When CPR is performed alongside defibrillation, there's a risk of rib fractures due to the pressure applied during chest compressions.

Why Choose Nanavati Max Hospital for Defibrillation?

Nanavati Max Hospital provides world-class healthcare facilities with advanced equipment, including state-of-the-art defibrillators and monitoring systems, ensuring precise and effective treatment. The hospital is staffed with experienced cardiologists and emergency care specialists who are skilled in managing critical heart conditions and defibrillation procedures. Additionally, Nanavati Max follows a patient-centred approach, focusing on personalised care and the safety of each patient, ensuring the best outcomes and a compassionate treatment experience.

Outlook

The outlook for defibrillation continues to improve as advancements in medical technology and techniques enhance its effectiveness and safety. With the development of more sophisticated defibrillators, such as automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), the ability to quickly restore normal heart rhythms has become more accessible and efficient. Ongoing research is focused on optimising defibrillation protocols, minimising risks, and improving patient recovery. As awareness of its life-saving potential grows, defibrillation is increasingly being integrated into public spaces, emergency services, and hospitals, ensuring rapid intervention during cardiac emergencies. Overall, the future of defibrillation looks promising, with innovations continuing to improve outcomes and save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose of defibrillation?

The purpose of defibrillation is to restore a normal heart rhythm by delivering an electrical shock to the heart in cases of life-threatening arrhythmias.

2. Is defibrillation painful?

Defibrillation is not typically painful for the person receiving it, as they are often unconscious or unresponsive at the time, but the shock can feel intense to those who are awake.

3. When is defibrillation necessary?

Defibrillation is necessary when a person experiences arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, which can cause the heart to stop pumping blood effectively.

4. How safe is defibrillation?

Defibrillation is generally safe when performed correctly, though risks such as burns, arrhythmias, or cardiac injury can occur in certain situations.

5. What happens if defibrillation does not work?

If defibrillation does not work, additional shocks, CPR, and medications may be administered to try to restore a normal heart rhythm.

6. Who needs defibrillation?

People experiencing life-threatening arrhythmias like ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia need defibrillation.

7. Who performs defibrillation?

Defibrillation is typically performed by trained healthcare providers, including paramedics, doctors, and emergency responders.

8. What equipment is used for defibrillation?

Defibrillators, including automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and manual defibrillators, are used to deliver the electric shock.

9. Which conditions are treated with defibrillation?

Defibrillation is used to treat conditions like ventricular fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and, in certain cases, atrial fibrillation.

Related Blogs

Difference Between a Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

ECG Vs ECHO: Difference Between Electrocardiogram & Echocardiography

Silent Heart Attacks

Heart Failure: Screening, Stages & Treatment

Cardiologist vs. Cardiac Surgeon