ISSN:
1540-8167
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Automatic Atrial Defibrillator. Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia, accounting for more consumption of medical resources than any other arrhythmia. The impact of the disease results from the combination of a loss of atrial contraction, and atrial control over cardiac rate. Studies in animals demonstrated the basic feasibility of atrial defibrillation using electrodes passed intravenously. Subsequent studies in patients confirmed that low-energy shocks were effective in converting atrial fibrillation and were safe if delivered synchronous to the R wave in the absence of a short preceding RR interval. Preliminary experience suggests that a small implanted device might provide beneficial therapy for patients with recurring episodes of persistent, drug-refractory, atrial fibrillation.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-8167.1996.tb00501.x
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