Asynchronized direct-current electrical energy causing acceleration of ventricular tachycardia.
Asynchronized direct-current (DC) shock was delivered inadvertently to a 67-year-old man with ventricular tachycardia. The electrical shock, which fell on the T-wave of the ECG, accelerated the tachycardia. A synchronized DC shock then converted the accelerated tachycardia to sinus rhythm. This case emphasizes the importance of synchronizing the electrical energy delivered during ventricular tachycardia.
D000368:Aged; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013610:Tachycardia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy