Defibrillaatio

Defibrillaatio is a medical procedure that delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart to terminate life-threatening arrhythmias and restore a normal rhythm. It is typically used for shockable rhythms such as ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia. It is not indicated for asystole or pulseless electrical activity without other measures.

Defibrillation can be delivered externally or internally. External defibrillation uses automated external defibrillators (AEDs) or manual defibrillators for immediate treatment in emergencies. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) provide internal, ongoing monitoring and can deliver shocks automatically when dangerous rhythms are detected.

In practice, defibrillation is part of the chain of survival for cardiac arrest: early recognition, prompt CPR, rapid defibrillation, and advanced care. AEDs are widely available in public spaces, and trained bystanders can use them guided by voice prompts. In hospitals, defibrillation is coordinated with advanced life support protocols.

Energy levels vary by device and rhythm; typical external shocks use biphasic energy in the range of 120–200 joules. Potential adverse effects include skin burns and transient myocardial injury. The likelihood of successful restoration of a normal rhythm depends on the duration of arrest, the underlying cause, and timely treatment of reversible factors.