The heart contains four chambers separated by one-way valves that allow blood to flow through the heart to and from the lungs and out into the body. A group of specialized cells, known as the sinus node, produce electrical impulses that trigger the heart to contract rhythmically. Arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm, causes the heart to pump either too quickly or too slowly. Defibrillation describes a process in which a device, known as a defibrillator, delivers electric shocks to the heart to help regain normal contraction rhythms during arrhythmia or heart attack, according to the American Heart Association.
Advanced Life Support
Healthcare professionals in hospitals and on ambulances utilize an advanced type of defibrillator known as an advanced life support system. In addition to delivering the electric shocks, these devices provide the ability to monitor many parameters of the patient's condition. Advanced life support systems monitor the patient's rhythm and make recommendations on the type and strength of waveform and shock to deliver. It also monitors blood pressure, oxygen levels, carbon dioxide levels, and temperature, as described by Resuscitation Central. The advanced monitoring offered by this device allows professionals to obtain the overall picture in order to make decisions and intervene manually if needed.
Automatic External Defibrillator
An automatic external defibrillator, also known as an AED, is a small portable device that contains a computer to assess the heart rhythm through the use of adhesive electrodes. The computer then judges if the patient requires defibrillation can deliver an electric shock as necessary. These devices are specifically designed to be used by non-medical personal such as police, firefighters, flight attendants and anyone who can perform CPR---cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Because the chances for surviving sudden cardiac arrest decreases by seven to 10 percent every minute, according to The American College of Emergency Physicians, The American Red Cross estimates that 50,000 lives could be saved each year by using AEDs.
Implantable Defibrillator
An implantable defibrillator works as both a pacemaker and a defibrillator. For patients at risk for dangerous heart arrhythmia or sudden cardiac death, implanting a small device in the chest near the collarbone with wires running to the heart can mean the difference between life and death. The implantable defibrillator detects abnormal heart rhythms and sends small electric shocks to help return the rhythm to normal. When the heartbeat slows down, it sends tiny electric signals to help the heart get back on pace.
Wearable Defibrillator
A wearable defibrillator straps on to the outside of the patient to provide continuous monitoring through non-adhesive electrodes. Like the implantable defibrillator, this device detects an abnormal heart rhythm and can deliver a shock to restore a normal heart rhythm. Wearable defibrillators provide a valuable treatment option for patients at risk for sudden cardiac arrest or sudden cardiac death, especially for those who cannot get an implantable device due to cost or health issues.
