Restoration of Sinus Rhythm by Defibrillation After Sudden Cardiac Arrest in a Patient with Chronic Atrial Fibrillation

ABSTRACT

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a relatively common cardiac arrhythmia that can have adverse consequences due to a reduction in cardiac output and thrombus formation. For patients hemodynamically unstable due to AF, we recommend urgent direct current (DC) cardioversion. The importance of an automated external defibrillator (AED) in the emergency medical field for this purpose is very high. In addition, the distribution rate of an AED in public health care is on the rise. We herein describe a patient whose chronic AF was converted to a sinus rhythm by defibrillation during an episode of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) which consequently improved left ventricular systolic function. We have experienced the importance of active use of AED.