External cardioversion

Cardioversion is a treatment which aims to return your abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) to a normal pattern. This is done by sending electrical signals to your heart by attaching electrodes on your chest. Elective cardioversion is a treatment option for people with atrial tachycardias including atrial fibrillation and flutter.

Who is suitable for external cardioversion?

Your cardiologist may recommend external cardioversion if:

  • Other treatments such as medication have not controlled the symptoms
  • Your age, overall health and the type of arrhythmia makes you eligible for cardioversion

What does external cardioversion involve?

Whilst under a short-acting general anaesthetic or heavy sedation, electrodes will be attached to your chest, they are then connected to a defibrillator to give you one or more controlled electric shocks. The defibrillator monitors your heart rhythm throughout the treatment.

How to prepare for external cardioversion?

You will require a blood thinner prior to cardioversion. Your cardiologist will discuss this with you.

What is the recovery period?

The majority of people recover from the procedure and go home the same day; however some patients do need to stay overnight. After cardioversion, there may be some slight discomfort in your chest where you received the shock.

External cardioversion is usually successful in restoring a normal heart rhythm. In some cases, the arrhythmia returns which may result in the procedure being repeated, or your consultant may consider other procedures.

Self-pay packages

If you wish to self-pay for your treatment, we offer a range of package options, including:

  • Hospital packages that group standard diagnostics and the procedure into one clear price. Consultant fees, anaesthetist fees, and any other addition to your treatment are billed separately.

If you would like to enquire about a self-pay package, please call our dedicated team on +44 (0)20 7244 4886.

Hospital package from £2,650 (daycase), £3,520 (1 night), and £4,790 (2 nights).

Included in package price:

  • pre-admission outpatient tests, which includes standard pathology and diagnostic tests (ECG and chest X-ray), if required
  • recovery and accommodation
  • ward medications, dressings, and nursing consumables
  • procedure, including anaesthetic drugs and theatre consumables
  • standard post–op medication
  • inpatient physiotherapy and surgical stockings, if required
  • discharge medication (up to £50)
  • all patient meals and non-alcoholic beverages (light meals for daycases)

Excluded from the package price:

  • consultant or anaesthetist fees
  • companion beds and catering for relatives or visitors
  • diagnostics, unless stated in inclusions
  • additional procedures 
  • additional pathology and supplies
  • histology tests
  • take-out supplies
  • personal expenses, such as telephone calls, ambulances, or additional catering
  • re-admission for return to theatres

Why choose Cromwell Hospital?

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Please note - regrettably we are unable to answer specific medical questions or offer medical advice via email or telephone.