For electrical cardioversion, your doctor first gives you a sedative. Then your doctor places paddles or patches either on your chest or on your chest and back, depending on your doctor's preference.
The paddles or patches send an electrical current to the heart. The electrical current stops the heart momentarily. When it resumes beating, the heart usually starts in a normal rhythm.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | John M. Miller, MD - Electrophysiology |
| Last Revised | November 2, 2010 |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.
