Cardioversion

Cardioversion is a medical procedure that corrects irregular heart rhythms, a condition known as arrhythmia. Using low-energy shocks or medications, cardioversion aims to restore the heart to its normal rhythm. 

Patients living with arrhythmias come from all over the world to receive care from our experienced team of cardiology experts. 

Your doctor might recommend cardioversion if you experience certain abnormal heart rhythms, particularly atrial fibrillation (AFib) or atrial flutter. While cardioversion can be used to correct a heartbeat that's irregular or too fast, it may not be a permanent solution for all arrhythmias. Long-term management strategies, such as medications or lifestyle changes, may also be recommended to maintain a stable heart rhythm.  

Cardioversion is often effective in restoring a normal heart rhythm in patients with atrial fibrillation. However, it does not always stop AFib permanently. In some cases, the irregular heart rhythm may return. Long-term management of AFib may require medications, lifestyle changes, or other procedures to reduce the risk of recurrence. 

At Penn Medicine, you’ll gain access to a dedicated team that is experienced in performing cardioversion procedures as well as other breakthrough treatments for AFib. As the largest arrhythmia program on the East Coast, our specialists are skilled at treating all types of irregular heartbeats, including persistent and medication-resistant arrhythmias. Your Penn Medicine team will be there to counsel you on the treatment plan that is right for you. 

After undergoing cardioversion, you’ll likely return home the same day, but you won’t be able to drive for 24 hours due to anesthesia. You can resume eating and drinking after the procedure, but your doctor may recommend that you refrain from certain activities like driving, swimming, and operating machinery during the initial 24-hour period. Your skin may feel sore or appear red where the pads were placed. You can use creams or pain relief medications for discomfort. 

You should avoid vigorous exercise immediately after the procedure and gradually increase your physical activity as advised by your doctor. Monitoring your pulse, heart rate, and blood pressure regularly is important, as is continuing any anti-blood clot medication your doctor may have prescribed. 

Lifestyle changes, such as limiting alcohol and caffeine, increasing physical activity (when appropriate), maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced diet are recommended. Be sure to keep up with any follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor your progress and discuss any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Cardioversion is considered a safe procedure when performed by trained healthcare professionals in an appropriate setting. However, like any medical procedure, it does carry some risks and potential complications, including: 

• Arrhythmia recurrence  
• Blood clots 
• Discomfort or pain at the site of the electrode placement during electrical cardioversion 

Other rare complications that may occur include: 

• Allergic or adverse reaction to anesthesia  
• Heart failure  
• Skin burns at the electrode placement sites during electrical cardioversion 
• Stroke caused by a dislodged blood clot 

Your Penn Medicine care team will discuss these risks with you to ensure you feel well informed and comfortable with your treatment plan.