cardioversion

[Andecles51]

I am due to have cardio version and the doctor says that the risk of stroke increases after the procedure. I would welcome any more information on the risks so I can make a decision

[Jalia]

I was not aware that this was a problem if you are properly anticoagulated . All procedures carry risks which have to be pointed out to you.

I've had a grand total of 25 dccvs over 30 years, last one 7 months ago

[Deerhoundlover]

Think about the benefits too. After having it done, my quality of life is much much better

[Sweetmelody]

I’ve had 5 CV’s in the last six months while in queue for ablation #2.

Before each one I have always been asked, “Have you missed even one dose of your anticoagulant?”

If the answer is yes, no CV. The danger is that a clot might have formed and could be set loose by a CV. (I never miss a dose, ever.)

There is, I have been told and have read, an increased risk of stroke primarily if not almost entirely in those patients who have not been on anticoagulants prior to the CV for a certain length of time or who have missed doses of anticoagulants.

The risk for patients on anticoagulants is very, very low in my understanding. If it weren’t, I would not so confidently, almost blithely go in for one CV after another. Getting back in NSR feels so good AND protects me from strokes that can arise from clot-causing arrhythmias.

Patients who need a CV but have not been on anticoagulants can undergo a TEE test to see if they have any clots lurking about prior to the procedure.

I never heard that my stroke risk in general increases after a CV. In fact, I believe the opposite is true given that being in NSR protects against the formation of blood clots.

I’d ask your doctor more questions and pin down what she or he means. Or find a doctor with better communication skills.

[Andecles51 in reply to Sweetmelody]

Thanks I agree about finding a doctor with better communication skills but as you say they have to warn you

[beardy_chris]

It is possible that a cardioversion may dislodge a clot that has already formed in the heart leading to a stroke. If you are appropriately anticoagulated for at least 14 days before the cardioversion, this risk is very small.

If the cardioversion is urgent and there is no time (which probably isn't the case as you have time to think), it is possible to check for the presence of clots but this makes the procedure more complicated and invasive which, of course, introduces other risks.

I'm not a medic but, in my humble opinion, cardioversion is a simple, quick, painless procedure that is not worth losing any sleep over but the medics have to warn you of all the possible risks. Go for it!

[Sweetmelody in reply to beardy_chris]

I agree! Go for it!

[Andecles51 in reply to beardy_chris]

Thanks