Full text
Introduction
The biphasic waveform has been shown to have high efficacy for transthoracic ventricular defibrillation [1,2]. The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of biphasic waveforms for cardioversion of atrial fibrillation.
Methods
The pulse is an asymmetric quasi-sinusoidal biphasic waveform. The peak current of the second phase was approximately half that of the first phase. Transthoracic cardioversion (29 emergent, 71 urgent and 41 elective) were performed in 141 patients who were receiving antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., amiodarone). Ischemic heart disease was the most common (about 90%) etiology. Shocks were delivered through 11.5 cm paddles in the antero-apical position. The maximum delivered energy was 195 J.
Results
See Table.
Conclusions
Our clinical results demonstrate that the biphasic waveform with a delivered energy of = 195 J was highly effective in cardioverting atrial fibrillation.
Table.
| Delivered Energy | Cumulative Success | 95% Confidence Interval |
|---|---|---|
| = 90 J | 113/141 (80%) | 72%-87% |
| = 140 J | 121/141 (86%) | 79%-92% |
| = 195 J | 132/141 (94%) | 88%-97% |
References
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