[Temporary adjustable defibrillator electrodes: an alternative method for the treatment of postoperative arrhythmias after heart surgery].

INTRODUCTION

Supraventricular and ventricular tachycardias are common and serious postoperative complications early after cardiac surgery. We introduce a new temporary adjustable defibrillation electrode (TADE) for internal low-energy cardioversion/defibrillation of postoperative atrial and ventricular tachyarrhythmias.

METHODS

Evaluation of the new electrode was performed in ten open-chest beagles with a mean weight of 25.5 kg. The electrodes were first positioned on the left and right atrium. Atrial fibrillation (AU) was induced via a bipolar temporary heart wire. Atrial defibrillation thresholds (DFT's) were measured according to a step-down shock protocol (5 J-0.4 J). Thereafter, the electrodes were adjusted and positioned on the right and left ventricle. Ventricular fibrillation (VF) was induced and DFT's were recorded the same way.

RESULTS

For termination of AF, mean DFT's were 0.4 +/- 0 J (lowest possible shock level) with a mean shock impedance of 70 +/- 7.6 omega. VF was terminated with a mean DFT of 3 +/- 1.1 J with a mean impedance 56.1 +/- 7.9 omega. Complete transcutaneous removal of the electrodes was possible in all animals without any complications.

CONCLUSION

Successful low-energy termination of AF and VF is possible with the tested temporary adjustable electrode. A clinical study is planned for further evaluation.