Catapult launch-associated cardioversion of atrial fibrillation.
A patient is presented with new-onset atrial fibrillation. While being air-evacuated, he cardioverted during the acceleration associated with aircraft carrier catapult launch. This case suggests a possible myocardial response to the kinetic energy produced by the acceleration force, similar to the electrical energy commonly used for cardioversion. Cardioversion using acceleration forces is probably not a clinically useful modality; however, this case demonstrates the importance of acceleration forces on patients during medical evacuation from aircraft carriers.
Bohnker
B K
BK
Medical Department, U.S.S. Forrestal (AVT 59), FPO AA 34080.
Feeks
E F
EF
McEwen
G
G
D000054:Acceleration; D000328:Adult; D000337:Aerospace Medicine; D000401:Aircraft; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006339:Heart Rate; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008889:Military Personnel; D014187:Transportation of Patients