Migotanie komór
Leczenie

Migotanie komór (VF) stanowi bezpośrednie zagrożenie życia, wymagające natychmiastowej interwencji w celu zapobieżenia nagłej śmierci sercowej. W leczeniu ratunkowym kluczowe jest szybkie przywrócenie rytmu serca poprzez resuscytację krążeniowo-oddechową (RKO) z częstotliwością 100-120 ucisków/min oraz defibrylację elektryczną, której skuteczność spada o 5-10% na każdą minutę opóźnienia. W szpitalnym protokole ACLS po trzech nieudanych defibrylacjach i 2 minutach RKO wprowadza się farmakoterapię: adrenalinę (powtarzaną co 3-5 minut) oraz amiodaron w dawce 300 mg. W opornym migotaniu komór stosuje się defibrylację do 360 J, a także nowatorskie techniki, takie jak pozycja przednio-tylna elektrod i podwójna sekwencyjna defibrylacja. Po uzyskaniu powrotu spontanicznego krążenia (ROSC) wdraża się leczenie długoterminowe obejmujące leki antyarytmiczne, antykoagulanty, beta-blokery oraz blokery kanału wapniowego, a w przypadku nawracających epizodów rozważa się ablację ognisk wyzwalających migotanie komór oraz implantację kardiowertera-defibrylatora (ICD). ICD jest szczególnie wskazany u pacjentów z frakcją wyrzutową lewej komory ≤35% i klasą NYHA II-III, zapewniając skuteczność defibrylacji na poziomie około 99% przy braku nieodwracalnej niewydolności pompy serca.

Leczenie migotania komór

Migotanie komór jest stanem zagrożenia życia, wymagającym natychmiastowego działania medycznego w celu zapobiegnięcia nagłej śmierci sercowej. Bez szybkiego leczenia może doprowadzić do śmierci w ciągu kilku minut, ponieważ chaotyczne impulsy elektryczne w komorach serca powodują, że przestają one skutecznie pompować krew, co prowadzi do nagłego zatrzymania krążenia.12 Leczenie migotania komór można podzielić na dwa etapy: leczenie ratunkowe, mające na celu natychmiastowe przywrócenie rytmu serca oraz leczenie długoterminowe, zapobiegające nawrotom.

Postępowanie ratunkowe

Celem leczenia ratunkowego jest jak najszybsze przywrócenie przepływu krwi, aby zapobiec uszkodzeniu narządów i mózgu.3 W fazie ratunkowej stosuje się:

  • Resuscytację krążeniowo-oddechową (RKO) – RKO naśladuje pompującą czynność serca, utrzymując przepływ krwi przez organizm. Należy rozpocząć uciskanie klatki piersiowej z częstotliwością 100-120 ucisków na minutę, umożliwiając całkowity powrót klatki piersiowej do pozycji wyjściowej między uciskami.45
  • Defibrylację – nazywaną również kardiowersją elektryczną. Automatyczny defibrylator zewnętrzny (AED) dostarcza impulsy elektryczne przez ścianę klatki piersiowej do serca, co może pomóc przywrócić regularny rytm pracy serca.67 Skuteczność defibrylacji zależy w dużej mierze od dwóch kluczowych czynników: czasu trwania migotania komór oraz stanu metabolicznego mięśnia sercowego.8

Wskaźnik skuteczności wczesnej defibrylacji w przypadku resuscytacji prowadzonej przez osoby niebędące personelem medycznym wynosi 37,4%.9 Skuteczność defibrylacji zmniejsza się o około 5-10% na każdą minutę od początku migotania komór, dlatego kluczowe jest jak najszybsze jej przeprowadzenie.10 Jeśli defibrylator nie jest natychmiast dostępny, należy rozpocząć RKO, aby utrzymać przepływ krwi do narządów, aż do momentu, gdy będzie można użyć defibrylatora.11

W szpitalnym protokole postępowania w migotaniu komór stosuje się algorytm zaawansowanych zabiegów resuscytacyjnych (ACLS – Advanced Cardiac Life Support). Po trzech nieudanych próbach defibrylacji oraz po 2 minutach RKO wprowadza się farmakoterapię. Pierwszym lekiem podawanym w przypadku utrzymującego się migotania komór jest adrenalina, którą można powtarzać co 3-5 minut. Jeśli adrenalina nie jest skuteczna, kolejnym lekiem według algorytmu jest amiodaron w dawce 300 mg.1213

W opornym migotaniu komór (refibrylacji) wytyczne resuscytacyjne sugerują podawanie wstrząsów o rosnącej intensywności do 360 J.14 W ostatnich badaniach wykazano również korzyści z zastosowania umieszczenia elektrod w pozycji przednio-tylnej oraz z podwójnej sekwencyjnej defibrylacji zewnętrznej w przypadkach opornego migotania komór.15

Leczenie farmakologiczne

Leki są stosowane zarówno w ratunkowym, jak i długoterminowym leczeniu migotania komór. W ostrym migotaniu komór po trzech próbach defibrylacji stosuje się leki takie jak:16

  • Amiodaron – lek antyarytmiczny klasy III wskazany w leczeniu zagrażającego życiu nawracającego migotania komór. Zmniejsza przewodzenie przedsionkowo-komorowe i funkcję węzła zatokowego. Przedłuża potencjał czynnościowy i okres refrakcji w mięśniu sercowym oraz hamuje stymulację adrenergiczną.17
  • Wazopresyna – ma wskazanie pozarejestracyjne w migotaniu komór powodującym zatrzymanie krążenia. Może poprawiać przepływ krwi do najważniejszych narządów, dostarczanie tlenu do mózgu, zdolność pacjenta do resuscytacji oraz jego powrót neurologiczny.18
  • Adrenalina – uważana za pojedynczy najbardziej użyteczny lek w zatrzymaniu krążenia, chociaż nigdy nie wykazano, aby przynosiła korzyści w zakresie długoterminowego przeżycia czy powrotu czynności.19
  • Lidokaina – stosowana w leczeniu migotania komór.20

Po uzyskaniu powrotu spontanicznego krążenia (ROSC) wprowadza się leczenie mające na celu zapobieganie nawrotom migotania komór. W leczeniu długoterminowym stosuje się:21

  • Leki antyarytmiczne – pomagają kontrolować rytm serca
  • Antykoagulanty – leki przeciwzakrzepowe, które pomagają leczyć, zapobiegać i zmniejszać zakrzepy krwi
  • Beta-blokery – pomagają zmniejszyć ciśnienie krwi
  • Blokery kanału wapniowego – pomagają rozluźnić naczynia krwionośne i zwiększyć dopływ krwi i tlenu do serca, jednocześnie zmniejszając obciążenie pracą serca

W przypadku nawracającego migotania komór lub burz elektrycznych wywołanych nawracającymi epizodami migotania komór, należy rozważyć ablację ognisk wyzwalających migotanie komór.22

Implantowalne kardiowertery-defibrylatory

Implantowalne kardiowertery-defibrylatory (ICD) są stosowane u pacjentów z wysokim ryzykiem nawrotu migotania komór.23 ICD to urządzenie zasilane baterią, które jest implantowane pod skórą w pobliżu obojczyka, podobnie jak rozrusznik serca.24

ICD stale monitoruje rytm serca. Jeśli urządzenie wykryje epizod migotania komór, wysyła impuls elektryczny, aby go zatrzymać i przywrócić prawidłowy rytm serca.25 Skuteczność natychmiastowej defibrylacji (w ciągu sekund, jak można osiągnąć za pomocą wszczepialnego kardiowertera-defibrylatora) wynosi około 99%, pod warunkiem, że nie występuje wcześniej nieodwracalna niewydolność pompy serca.26

Osoby, które przeżyły zatrzymanie krążenia w mechanizmie migotania komór i u których nie stwierdzono odwracalnej przyczyny, są narażone na wysokie ryzyko przyszłych epizodów migotania komór i nagłej śmierci. Większość z tych pacjentów wymaga wszczepialnego kardiowertera-defibrylatora; wielu wymaga jednoczesnego stosowania leków antyarytmicznych, aby zmniejszyć częstość kolejnych epizodów częstoskurczu komorowego i migotania komór.27

Według najnowszych wytycznych Amerykańskiego Towarzystwa Kardiologicznego (AHA/ACC/HRS) dotyczących postępowania z pacjentami z arytmiami komorowymi i zapobiegania nagłej śmierci sercowej, ICD jest zalecany u pacjentów z niewydolnością serca w klasie NYHA II-III i frakcją wyrzutową lewej komory ≤35%, pomimo optymalnego leczenia farmakologicznego, jeśli oczekiwane przeżycie wynosi co najmniej 1 rok.28

Ablacja przezskórna

Ablacja serca wykorzystuje energię cieplną lub zimną do tworzenia małych blizn w sercu, które blokują nieprawidłowe sygnały elektryczne powodujące migotanie komór.29 Jest to procedura wykonywana w celu leczenia arytmii, najczęściej za pomocą cienkich, elastycznych cewników wprowadzanych przez żyły lub tętnice.30

Ablacja przezskórna jest wskazana w zapobieganiu migotaniu komór u pacjentów z:31

  • Zespołem WPW (Wolff-Parkinson-White)
  • Częstoskurczem komorowym
  • Innymi arytmiami prowadzącymi do migotania komór

W przypadku migotania komór związanego z dysfunkcją Purkinjego, ablacja może być skuteczną metodą leczenia. Aplikacja prądu RF w miejscu pochodzenia Purkinjego typowo powoduje indukcję arytmii komorowej, a rzadko migotania komór z następczym zakończeniem. Wyzwalacze migotania komór są eliminowane, a potencjał Purkinjego jest zniesiony na końcu ablacji.32

W nowatorskiej procedurze opracowanej na Uniwersytecie Kalifornijskim w San Diego, zwanej ukierunkowaną ablacją migotania komór, pacjent zostaje poddany znieczuleniu ogólnemu, a defibrylatory, które zapobiegają migotaniu komór, są wyłączane. Następnie lekarze używają elektrokardiogramu do stworzenia skomputeryzowanej mapy napięcia serca. Specjalistyczny cewnik jest umieszczany w sercu przez nacięcie w pachwinie, indukowane jest migotanie komór i arytmia pacjenta jest rejestrowana przez 15 sekund. Dane są analizowane, dostarczając lekarzom mapę określonych celów do ablacji.33

Cewnik ablacyjny – cienka, elastyczna metalowa rurka z elektrodą na jednym końcu – jest używany do kauteryzacji miejsc w sercu pacjenta, gdzie napięcie jest najniższe, eliminując nieprawidłowe szlaki elektryczne.34

Procedury rewaskularyzacyjne

Jeśli przyczyną migotania komór jest zawał serca lub choroba wieńcowa, stosuje się procedury rewaskularyzacyjne, które mogą zmniejszyć ryzyko przyszłych epizodów migotania komór:35

  • Angioplastyka wieńcowa i stentowanie – jeśli migotanie komór jest spowodowane zawałem serca, ta procedura może zmniejszyć ryzyko przyszłych epizodów migotania komór. Lekarz wprowadza cewnik przez tętnicę i do zablokowanej tętnicy w sercu. Następnie napełnia balon na końcu cewnika, aby otworzyć tętnicę i przywrócić przepływ krwi. Może również umieścić siateczkową rurkę (stent) w tętnicy, aby utrzymać ją otwartą.36
  • Pomostowanie tętnic wieńcowych – jeśli przyczyną migotania komór jest choroba tętnic wieńcowych, można wykonać ten typ operacji na otwartym sercu. Wykorzystuje on naczynie krwionośne pobrane z innego miejsca w ciele, aby skierować krew wokół zablokowanej lub częściowo zablokowanej tętnicy w sercu.37

Należy zauważyć, że samo pomostowanie tętnic wieńcowych zapobiega nawrotowi migotania komór tylko wtedy, gdy frakcja wyrzutowa jest prawidłowa, a niedokrwienie było przyczyną zatrzymania akcji serca. Nawet u tych pacjentów często umieszcza się ICD po CABG.38

Leczenie dodatkowe

Oprócz wyżej wymienionych metod leczenia, stosuje się również inne podejścia terapeutyczne:

  • Denerwacja współczulna serca lewego – jest to procedura chirurgiczna, która może pomóc pacjentom z częstymi epizodami migotania komór. Nie jest to powszechna procedura i jest zwykle zarezerwowana dla osób z niekontrolowanym migotaniem komór z predyspozycją genetyczną.39 Denerwacja współczulna serca lewego (LCSD) ma działanie antyarytmiczne i przeciwmigotające, które jest korzystne dla pacjentów z kanałopatiami, takimi jak zespół długiego QT lub katecholaminergiczny wielokształtny częstoskurcz komorowy.40
  • Przenośny kardiowerter-defibrylator (WCD) – działa podobnie jak ICD, z tą różnicą, że jest noszony na zewnątrz ciała. Przewody łączą czujniki na skórze z jednostką noszoną pod ubraniem. WCD może być zaprogramowany do wykrywania określonego typu arytmii, takiej jak migotanie komór.41
  • Leczenie hipotermią – Grupa Badawcza Hipotermii po Zatrzymaniu Akcji Serca wykazała na podstawie badania 136 pacjentów, że zastosowanie celowanego leczenia temperaturą (TTM) wyraźnie poprawiło wynik neurologiczny i zmniejszyło śmiertelność.42

Postępowanie po zatrzymaniu krążenia

Staranna opieka po resuscytacji jest niezbędna do przeżycia, ponieważ badania wykazały 50% ponownych zatrzymań krążenia w szpitalu u osób przyjętych po epizodzie migotania komór.43 Leki antyarytmiczne skutecznie stosowane podczas resuscytacji są zwykle kontynuowane.44

Innym ważnym elementem poprawy wyniku neurologicznego jest rozpoczęta w odpowiednim czasie opieka po resuscytacji, która obejmuje interwencję wieńcową i celowane leczenie temperaturą (TTM).45 Wytyczne resuscytacyjne z 2015 roku zalecają jak najwcześniejszą PCI w przypadku nagłej śmierci sercowej z ostrym zespołem wieńcowym jako przyczyną podstawową.46

Pacjenci, którzy przeżyli „zatrzymanie w mechanizmie migotania komór” i którzy dobrze wracają do zdrowia, są często rozważani do wszczepienia kardiowertera-defibrylatora, który może szybko dostarczyć tę samą ratującą życie defibrylację, jeśli kolejny epizod migotania komór wystąpi poza środowiskiem szpitalnym.47

Leczenie idiopatycznego migotania komór

Idiopatyczne migotanie komór (IVF) to diagnoza wykluczenia postawiona, gdy nie zidentyfikowano podstawowej przyczyny u osoby, która przeżyła zatrzymanie krążenia.48 IVF stanowi 5% do 10% osób, które przeżyły pozaszpitalne zatrzymanie krążenia.49

Ponieważ nawracające epizody migotania komór są częste i trudne do przewidzenia, wszczepienie kardiowertera-defibrylatora (ICD) jest uważane za terapię pierwszego rzutu dla pacjentów z IVF.50 Chociaż ICD zmniejszają śmiertelność u osób z IVF, nie rozwiązują problemu podłoża IVF; stąd, przy braku modyfikacji podłoża, występują nawracające migotanie komór, omdlenie, zatrzymanie krążenia i wstrząsy ICD.51

Zarówno wytyczne, jak i dokumenty konsensusu ekspertów zgadzają się, że wszczepienie kardiowertera-defibrylatora (ICD) jest zalecane u pacjentów z rozpoznaniem idiopatycznego migotania komór (klasa I). Optymalne leczenie farmakologiczne jest mniej dobrze zdefiniowane ze względu na niską częstość występowania tego schorzenia i brak randomizowanych badań kontrolowanych przypadków.52

W leczeniu idiopatycznego migotania komór stosuje się:53

  • Dożylne blokery kanału wapniowego i izoprenalina w ostrym leczeniu migotania komór okazały się skuteczne w idiopatycznym migotaniu komór związanym z krótkosprzężonym torsade de pointes i wczesną repolaryzacją.
  • Mimo braku danych na dużą skalę, długoterminowa profilaktyka chinidyną wydaje się być skuteczna w tłumieniu nawrotów migotania komór, niezależnie od związanego z nim fenotypu elektrokardiogramu.

Według najnowszych wytycznych stosowanie dożylnych blokerów kanału wapniowego należy rozważyć w ostrym leczeniu burz migotania komór lub powtarzających się wyładowań ICD u osób z krótkosprzężonym torsade de pointes (klasa IIb).54

Podsumowanie leczenia migotania komór

Leczenie migotania komór jest procesem wieloetapowym, wymagającym natychmiastowej interwencji w fazie ostrej oraz kompleksowego podejścia w zapobieganiu nawrotom. Kluczowe znaczenie ma defibrylacja wykonana jak najszybciej po wystąpieniu migotania komór, a wskaźniki skuteczności defibrylacji zmniejszają się o 5-10% z każdą minutą od początku migotania komór.55

Dla pacjentów z wysokim ryzykiem nawrotu migotania komór, implantowalne kardiowertery-defibrylatory stanowią najskuteczniejszą metodę zapobiegania nagłej śmierci sercowej. Leki antyarytmiczne, ablacja przezskórna oraz leczenie chorób podstawowych są niezbędnymi elementami kompleksowej strategii terapeutycznej.56

Edukacja i szkolenie osób niebędących pracownikami służby zdrowia w zakresie podstawowych zabiegów resuscytacyjnych oraz korzystania z automatycznych defibrylatorów zewnętrznych w miejscach publicznych prawdopodobnie mają największy wpływ na poprawę wskaźników przeżywalności.57

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  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Ventricular fibrillation – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation/symptoms-causes/syc-20364523
    Ventricular fibrillation is an emergency that requires immediate medical attention. It’s the most frequent cause of sudden cardiac death. […] Emergency treatment for ventricular fibrillation includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and shocks to the heart with a device called an automated external defibrillator (AED). Medications, implanted devices or surgery may be recommended to prevent episodes of ventricular fibrillation. […] Without immediate treatment, ventricular fibrillation can cause death within minutes. The condition’s rapid, erratic heartbeats cause the heart to abruptly stop pumping blood to the body. Blood pressure drops suddenly and significantly. The longer the body lacks blood, the greater the risk of damage to the brain and other organs. […] Ventricular fibrillation is the most frequent cause of sudden cardiac death. The risk of other long-term complications depends on how fast treatment is received.
  • #2 Ventricular Fibrillation | American Heart Association
    https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia/ventricular-fibrillation
    Ventricular fibrillation, or VF, is considered the most serious abnormal heart rhythm. VF is extremely dangerous and can lead to sudden cardiac death. Without treatment, the condition is fatal within minutes. […] If you suspect someone is having cardiac arrest, it’s vital to respond appropriately and quickly. Call 911, give CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if one is available. […] If you’re at risk for ventricular fibrillation, your health care professional may recommend: Arrhythmia medications, which help control rhythm problems; An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), which detects and corrects abnormal heart rhythms by sending a shock to the heart.
  • #3 Ventricular fibrillation – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20364524
    Ventricular fibrillation requires emergency medical treatment to prevent sudden cardiac death. The goal of emergency treatment is to restore blood flow as quickly as possible to prevent organ and brain damage. […] Emergency treatment for ventricular fibrillation includes: […] Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) mimics the pumping motion of the heart. It keeps blood flowing through the body. […] Defibrillation is also called cardioversion. An automated external defibrillator (AED) delivers shocks through the chest wall to the heart. It can help restore a regular heart rhythm. […] Other treatments for ventricular fibrillation are given to prevent future episodes and reduce the risk of arrhythmia-related symptoms. Treatment for ventricular fibrillation includes medications, medical devices and surgery.
  • #4 Ventricular fibrillation | Beacon Health System
    https://www.beaconhealthsystem.org/library/diseases-and-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation?content_id=CON-20316973
    Ventricular fibrillation requires emergency medical treatment to prevent sudden cardiac death. The goal of emergency treatment is to restore blood flow as quickly as possible to prevent organ and brain damage. […] Emergency treatment for ventricular fibrillation includes: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). CPR mimics the pumping motion of the heart. It keeps blood flowing through the body. First call 911 or your local emergency number. Then start CPR by pushing hard and fast on the person’s chest about 100 to 120 compressions a minute. Let the chest rise completely between compressions. Continue CPR until an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available or emergency medical help arrives. […] Defibrillation. This treatment is also called cardioversion. An automated external defibrillator (AED) delivers shocks through the chest wall to the heart. It can help restore a regular heart rhythm. As soon as an AED is available, apply it and follow the prompts. If you’re not trained to use an AED, a 911 operator or another emergency medical operator may be able to give you instructions. Public-use AEDs are programmed to recognize ventricular fibrillation and send a shock only when needed.
  • #5 Ventricular fibrillation Information | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation
    VF is a medical emergency. It must be treated immediately to save a person’s life. […] Call 911 or the local emergency number for help if a person who is having a VF episode collapses at home or becomes unconscious. […] While waiting for help, place the person’s head and neck in line with the rest of the body to help make breathing easier. Start CPR by doing chest compressions in the center of the chest („push hard and push fast”). Compressions should be delivered at the rate of 100 to 120 times per minute. Compressions should be done to a depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm) but no more than 2 ½ inches (6 cm). […] Continue to do this until the person becomes alert or help arrives. […] VF is treated by delivering a quick electric shock through the chest. It is done using a device called an
  • #6 Ventricular fibrillation – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20364524
    Ventricular fibrillation requires emergency medical treatment to prevent sudden cardiac death. The goal of emergency treatment is to restore blood flow as quickly as possible to prevent organ and brain damage. […] Emergency treatment for ventricular fibrillation includes: […] Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) mimics the pumping motion of the heart. It keeps blood flowing through the body. […] Defibrillation is also called cardioversion. An automated external defibrillator (AED) delivers shocks through the chest wall to the heart. It can help restore a regular heart rhythm. […] Other treatments for ventricular fibrillation are given to prevent future episodes and reduce the risk of arrhythmia-related symptoms. Treatment for ventricular fibrillation includes medications, medical devices and surgery.
  • #7 Ventricular Fibrillation: Diagnosis & Treatment
    https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/patient-care/services-and-specialties/heart/conditions/ventricular-fibrillation/treatment
    An automatic external defibrillator (AED) can deliver an electric shock to the heart, stabilizing its rhythm and restoring function. […] Once heart function is restored, doctors may prescribe an anti-arrhythmic medication to help regulate your heartbeat and prevent future ventricular fibrillation symptoms or episodes. […] For long-term prevention of ventricular fibrillation, the most common treatment is an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). An ICD is a small device placed inside your body that monitors your hearts rhythm. If it detects VF, it automatically delivers a lifesaving shock to stabilize you. […] If a heart attack caused your v-fib, these procedures can restore blood flow and reduce future risk. […] This minimally invasive procedure creates small scars on the heart to block abnormal electrical signals that cause v-fib.
  • #8 Ventricular Fibrillation Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Defibrillation, ACLS Algorithm
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-treatment
    Successful defibrillation largely depends on two key factors: the duration of the VF and the metabolic condition of the myocardium. […] Consequently, early defibrillation is vital; emergency medical services (EMS) personnel can perform defibrillation at the scene, long before the patient could be seen at the emergency department (ED). […] Defibrillation success rates decrease about 5%-10% for each minute after the onset of VF. […] The goal is to use the minimum amount of energy required to overcome the threshold of defibrillation. […] Careful postresuscitative care is essential to survival, because studies have shown a 50% repeat in-hospital arrest rate for people admitted after a ventricular fibrillation (VF) event. […] Antiarrhythmics successfully used during resuscitation are usually continued.
  • #9 Handling of Ventricular Fibrillation in the Emergency Setting
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7043313/
    The most effective therapies for ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) are immediate high-quality chest compression as well as early defibrillation, which latter plays a key role in terminating these arrhythmias. […] Survival rate by early defibrillation in the case of resuscitation performed by lay people is 37.4%. […] The necessity of earliest possible electrical treatment is underpinned by the fact that the rate of successful resuscitation falls by 7%10% per min from the circulatory collapse. […] An improvement in the chance of long-term survival and the least neurological damage were found in the case when the initial rhythm observed on site was ventricular fibrillation. […] Another important element of improving the neurological outcome is post-resuscitation care started in time, which includes coronary intervention and targeted temperature management (TTM).
  • #10 Ventricular Fibrillation Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Defibrillation, ACLS Algorithm
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-treatment
    Successful defibrillation largely depends on two key factors: the duration of the VF and the metabolic condition of the myocardium. […] Consequently, early defibrillation is vital; emergency medical services (EMS) personnel can perform defibrillation at the scene, long before the patient could be seen at the emergency department (ED). […] Defibrillation success rates decrease about 5%-10% for each minute after the onset of VF. […] The goal is to use the minimum amount of energy required to overcome the threshold of defibrillation. […] Careful postresuscitative care is essential to survival, because studies have shown a 50% repeat in-hospital arrest rate for people admitted after a ventricular fibrillation (VF) event. […] Antiarrhythmics successfully used during resuscitation are usually continued.
  • #11 Ventricular Fibrillation: Causes & Treatment [ACLS Algorithm]
    https://www.aclsonline.us/rhythms/ventricular-fibrillation/
    The first stage of treatment focuses on rapid termination of the VF which often provides an immediate restoration of blood flow to vital organs. Once the patient exhibits return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), the second stage is about preventing another incident. […] Immediate defibrillation is the first priority. If not immediately available, CPR can increase blood flow to vital organs such as the brain and heart, it cannot restore the patient’s regular rhythm. Because of this, defibrillation is the first step in an ideal environment. CPR will then be part of subsequent steps to get the patient out of cardiac arrest. […] Use of dynamic ECG monitoring to assess the specific rhythm of the patient throughout treatment is mandatory. Both unstable VT and VF are considered shockable rhythms. This means that if the patient exhibits either of these patterns which caused the arrest, immediate electrical countershock is required.
  • #12 Ventricular Fibrillation Treatment and Causes | ACLS.com
    https://acls.com/articles/ventricular-fibrillation/
    After 2 minutes of CPR, the rhythm should be reassessed during V-fib treatment. Depending on the rhythm, providers will continue the Adult Cardiac Arrest Algorithm or begin using the appropriate one. Continued VF calls for another shock, followed by good CPR once again for 2 minutes. […] If the patient remains in ventricular fibrillation, pharmacological treatment should begin. Epinephrine is the first drug given and may be repeated every 3 to 5 minutes. If epinephrine is not effective, the next medication in the algorithm is amiodarone 300 mg. […] Defibrillation and medication are given in an alternating fashion between cycles of 2 minutes of high-quality CPR. Continue until the patient achieves return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) or the cardiac arrest team determines it is time to stop the resuscitation efforts.
  • #13 Ventricular Fibrillation Medication: Antidysrhythmics, Ia, Antidysrhythmics, Ib, Antidysrhythmics, III, Antidysrhythmics, V, Vasopressors
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-medication
    In acute ventricular fibrillation (VF), drugs (eg, vasopressin, epinephrine, amiodarone) are used after three defibrillation attempts are performed to restore normal rhythm. Amiodarone can also be used on a long-term basis in patients who refuse placement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or who are not candidates for an ICD. However, amiodarone has not been shown to be of value for primary prevention of VF in patients with a depressed left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF). […] Amiodarone is a class III antiarrhythmic agent indicated for the management of life-threatening recurrent VF. […] Recurrent VF that is not due to a reversible cause can be treated with intravenous (IV) amiodarone. It decreases AV conduction and sinus node function. It also prolongs action potential and refractory period in myocardium and inhibits adrenergic stimulation. Amiodarone can also be used orally on a long-term basis in patients who refuse ICDs, are not candidates for ICDs, or have frequent ventricular arrhythmias.
  • #14 Handling of Ventricular Fibrillation in the Emergency Setting
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7043313/
    Taking all the available data into consideration it can be concluded that currently there is no appropriate antiarrhythmic agent that can safely prevent VF and would significantly improve the long-term outcome of patients with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. […] In the case of refractory VF (refibrillation), the resuscitation recommendation suggests administering shocks of growing intensity up to 360 J. […] In the cases of recurrent or refractory VF and ICD storms secondary to repeated VF episodes, ablation of VF triggers and substrates have to be taken into consideration.
  • #15 Updates in the Management of Refractory Ventricular Tachycardia or Ventricular Fibrillation Arrest – ACEP Now
    https://www.acepnow.com/article/updates-in-the-management-of-refractory-ventricular-tachycardia-or-ventricular-fibrillation-arrest/
    More recent literature defines refractory as VT or VF that is persistent or recurrent despite three shocks from a defibrillator, three rounds of epinephrine, and use of an antiarrhythmic (i.e., amiodarone or lidocaine). […] Modified strategies for refractory cases of VT or VF involve either moving the pads to the anteroposterior position or using two sets of pads for dual sequential external defibrillation. Prior retrospective reviews of dual sequential defibrillation showed promising results with regard to termination of refractory VF, return of spontaneous circulation, and survival to hospital discharge. More recently, the DOSE VF pilot study and subsequent cluster randomized control trial, Defibrillation Strategies for Refractory Ventricular Fibrillation, have demonstrated significant benefit of both anteroposterior pad placement and dual sequential defibrillation in cases of refractory VF compared to continued anterolateral shocks.
  • #16 Ventricular Fibrillation Medication: Antidysrhythmics, Ia, Antidysrhythmics, Ib, Antidysrhythmics, III, Antidysrhythmics, V, Vasopressors
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-medication
    In acute ventricular fibrillation (VF), drugs (eg, vasopressin, epinephrine, amiodarone) are used after three defibrillation attempts are performed to restore normal rhythm. Amiodarone can also be used on a long-term basis in patients who refuse placement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or who are not candidates for an ICD. However, amiodarone has not been shown to be of value for primary prevention of VF in patients with a depressed left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF). […] Amiodarone is a class III antiarrhythmic agent indicated for the management of life-threatening recurrent VF. […] Recurrent VF that is not due to a reversible cause can be treated with intravenous (IV) amiodarone. It decreases AV conduction and sinus node function. It also prolongs action potential and refractory period in myocardium and inhibits adrenergic stimulation. Amiodarone can also be used orally on a long-term basis in patients who refuse ICDs, are not candidates for ICDs, or have frequent ventricular arrhythmias.
  • #17 Ventricular Fibrillation Medication: Antidysrhythmics, Ia, Antidysrhythmics, Ib, Antidysrhythmics, III, Antidysrhythmics, V, Vasopressors
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-medication
    In acute ventricular fibrillation (VF), drugs (eg, vasopressin, epinephrine, amiodarone) are used after three defibrillation attempts are performed to restore normal rhythm. Amiodarone can also be used on a long-term basis in patients who refuse placement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or who are not candidates for an ICD. However, amiodarone has not been shown to be of value for primary prevention of VF in patients with a depressed left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF). […] Amiodarone is a class III antiarrhythmic agent indicated for the management of life-threatening recurrent VF. […] Recurrent VF that is not due to a reversible cause can be treated with intravenous (IV) amiodarone. It decreases AV conduction and sinus node function. It also prolongs action potential and refractory period in myocardium and inhibits adrenergic stimulation. Amiodarone can also be used orally on a long-term basis in patients who refuse ICDs, are not candidates for ICDs, or have frequent ventricular arrhythmias.
  • #18 Ventricular Fibrillation Medication: Antidysrhythmics, Ia, Antidysrhythmics, Ib, Antidysrhythmics, III, Antidysrhythmics, V, Vasopressors
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-medication
    Vasopressin has an off-label indication for VF that is causing pulseless arrest. This agent may improve vital organ blood flow, cerebral oxygen delivery, the patient’s ability to be resuscitated, and the patient’s neurologic recovery. […] Epinephrine is considered to be the single most useful drug in cardiac arrest, although it has never been shown to benefit long-term survival or functional recovery.
  • #19 Ventricular Fibrillation Medication: Antidysrhythmics, Ia, Antidysrhythmics, Ib, Antidysrhythmics, III, Antidysrhythmics, V, Vasopressors
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-medication
    Vasopressin has an off-label indication for VF that is causing pulseless arrest. This agent may improve vital organ blood flow, cerebral oxygen delivery, the patient’s ability to be resuscitated, and the patient’s neurologic recovery. […] Epinephrine is considered to be the single most useful drug in cardiac arrest, although it has never been shown to benefit long-term survival or functional recovery.
  • #20 List of 9 Ventricular Fibrillation Medications Compared
    https://www.drugs.com/condition/ventricular-fibrillation.html
    A disorganised chaotic contraction of the ventricle that fails to effectively eject blood from the ventricle. […] During ventricular fibrillation the patient is unconscious and will die if emergency intervention is not undertaken. […] The medications listed below are related to or used in the treatment of this condition. […] Amiodarone is used to treat Ventricular Fibrillation. […] Lidocaine is used to treat Ventricular Fibrillation. […] Vasopressin is used to treat Ventricular Fibrillation. […] Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
  • #21 Ventricular Fibrillation
    https://www.rwjbh.org/treatment-care/heart-and-vascular-care/diseases-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation/
    Treatment depends on the severity of your VFib condition, any other underlying medical issues you might have, and the length of the VFib condition. Based on the findings, your doctor may recommend the following: […] Antiarrhythmic medications will help control your hearts rhythm. Anticoagulants blood-thinners will help treat, prevent, and reduce blood clots. Beta blockers will help reduce your blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers will help relax blood vessels and increase the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart while also reducing the heart’s workload. […] Cardioversion […] Cardiac Ablation to treat arrhythmias […] Mini-Maze procedure […] Pacemaker implantation […] Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
  • #22 Handling of Ventricular Fibrillation in the Emergency Setting
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7043313/
    Taking all the available data into consideration it can be concluded that currently there is no appropriate antiarrhythmic agent that can safely prevent VF and would significantly improve the long-term outcome of patients with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. […] In the case of refractory VF (refibrillation), the resuscitation recommendation suggests administering shocks of growing intensity up to 360 J. […] In the cases of recurrent or refractory VF and ICD storms secondary to repeated VF episodes, ablation of VF triggers and substrates have to be taken into consideration.
  • #23 Ventricular Fibrillation Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Defibrillation, ACLS Algorithm
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-treatment
    Acute ventricular fibrillation (VF) is treated according to Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) protocols. […] Prevention of VF is directed at the underlying cause (see Etiology). Pharmacotherapy or surgical treatment (eg, operable coronary artery disease [CAD]) may be appropriate in some cases, whereas radiofrequency ablation is effective in a variety of disorders. […] Antiarrhythmic drugs appear to be beneficial for individuals with unsuccessful initial early CPR and defibrillation attempts when these agents are administered early. […] Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), which effectively provide early defibrillation, are used for patients at high risk for recurrent VF. […] External electrical defibrillation remains the most successful treatment for ventricular fibrillation (VF).
  • #24 Ventricular fibrillation – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20364524
    Drugs to control the heart rhythm (anti-arrhythmics) are used for emergency or long-term treatment of ventricular fibrillation. […] Surgery or medical procedures to treat ventricular fibrillation include: […] An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a battery-powered unit that’s implanted under the skin near the collarbone similar to a pacemaker. […] Cardiac ablation uses heat or cold energy to create tiny scars in the heart to block the irregular heart signals that cause ventricular fibrillation. […] If ventricular fibrillation is caused by a heart attack, coronary angioplasty may reduce the risk of future episodes of ventricular fibrillation. […] Coronary bypass surgery redirects blood around a section of a blocked or partially blocked artery in the heart.
  • #25 Ventricular fibrillation | Beacon Health System
    https://www.beaconhealthsystem.org/library/diseases-and-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation?content_id=CON-20316973
    Other treatments for ventricular fibrillation are given to prevent future episodes and reduce the risk of arrhythmia-related symptoms. Treatment for ventricular fibrillation includes medications, medical devices and surgery. […] Drugs to control the heart rhythm (anti-arrhythmics) are used for emergency or long-term treatment of ventricular fibrillation. If you’re at risk of ventricular fibrillation or sudden cardiac death, your provider may prescribe medications to slow and control your heartbeat. […] Surgery or medical procedures to treat ventricular fibrillation include: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). An ICD is a battery-powered unit that’s implanted under the skin near the collarbone similar to a pacemaker. The ICD continuously monitors the heart rhythm. If the device detects an episode of ventricular fibrillation, it sends shocks to stop it and reset the heart’s rhythm.
  • #26 Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) – Cardiovascular Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/specific-cardiac-arrhythmias/ventricular-fibrillation-vf
    Ventricular fibrillation causes uncoordinated quivering of the ventricle with no useful contractions. It causes immediate syncope and death within minutes. Treatment is with cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including immediate defibrillation. […] Treatment of ventricular fibrillation is with cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including defibrillation, beginning with biphasic 120 to 200 joules (or monophasic 360 joules). The success rate for immediate defibrillation (within seconds as can be achieved by an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) is about 99% provided that overwhelming pump failure does not preexist. Thereafter, the first shock defibrillation success rate decreases by about 10% per minute (1). […] Patients who have VF without a reversible or transient cause are at high risk of future VF events and of sudden death. Most of these patients require an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator; many require concomitant antiarrhythmic medications to reduce the frequency of subsequent episodes of ventricular tachycardia and VF (2).
  • #27 Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) – Cardiovascular Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/specific-cardiac-arrhythmias/ventricular-fibrillation-vf
    Ventricular fibrillation causes uncoordinated quivering of the ventricle with no useful contractions. It causes immediate syncope and death within minutes. Treatment is with cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including immediate defibrillation. […] Treatment of ventricular fibrillation is with cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including defibrillation, beginning with biphasic 120 to 200 joules (or monophasic 360 joules). The success rate for immediate defibrillation (within seconds as can be achieved by an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) is about 99% provided that overwhelming pump failure does not preexist. Thereafter, the first shock defibrillation success rate decreases by about 10% per minute (1). […] Patients who have VF without a reversible or transient cause are at high risk of future VF events and of sudden death. Most of these patients require an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator; many require concomitant antiarrhythmic medications to reduce the frequency of subsequent episodes of ventricular tachycardia and VF (2).
  • #28 2017 Guideline for Management of Ventricular Arrhythmias and Prevention of SCD
    https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/ten-points-to-remember/2017/10/29/08/56/2017-guideline-for-management-of-patients-with-ventricular-arrhythmias
    In patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy, HF with New York Heart Association class IIIII symptoms and an LVEF of 35%, despite guideline-directed management and therapy, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is recommended if meaningful survival of 1 year is expected. […] In patients with prior myocardial infarction and recurrent episodes of symptomatic sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT), or who present with VT or ventricular fibrillation storm and have failed or are intolerant of amiodarone (Level of Evidence B-R) or other antiarrhythmic medications (Level of Evidence B-NR), catheter ablation is recommended. […] For patients who require arrhythmia suppression for symptoms or declining ventricular function suspected to be due to frequent premature ventricular complexes (generally 15% of beats and predominately of one morphology) and for whom antiarrhythmic medications are ineffective, not tolerated, or not the patients preference, catheter ablation is useful (Level I).
  • #29 Ventricular fibrillation – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20364524
    Drugs to control the heart rhythm (anti-arrhythmics) are used for emergency or long-term treatment of ventricular fibrillation. […] Surgery or medical procedures to treat ventricular fibrillation include: […] An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a battery-powered unit that’s implanted under the skin near the collarbone similar to a pacemaker. […] Cardiac ablation uses heat or cold energy to create tiny scars in the heart to block the irregular heart signals that cause ventricular fibrillation. […] If ventricular fibrillation is caused by a heart attack, coronary angioplasty may reduce the risk of future episodes of ventricular fibrillation. […] Coronary bypass surgery redirects blood around a section of a blocked or partially blocked artery in the heart.
  • #30 Ventricular fibrillation | Beacon Health System
    https://www.beaconhealthsystem.org/library/diseases-and-conditions/ventricular-fibrillation?content_id=CON-20316973
    Cardiac ablation. This procedure uses heat or cold energy to create tiny scars in the heart to block the irregular heart signals that cause ventricular fibrillation. It’s most often done using thin, flexible tubes called catheters inserted through the veins or arteries. It may also be done during heart surgery. […] Coronary angioplasty and stent placement. If ventricular fibrillation is caused by a heart attack, this procedure may reduce the risk of future episodes of ventricular fibrillation. […] Coronary bypass surgery. This open-heart surgery redirects blood around a section of a blocked or partially blocked artery in the heart. It may be done if ventricular fibrillation is caused by coronary artery disease. During bypass surgery, the surgeon takes a healthy blood vessel from the leg, arm or chest. It’s connected below and above the blocked artery or arteries in the heart. This creates a new pathway for blood flow.
  • #31 Ventricular Fibrillation Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Defibrillation, ACLS Algorithm
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-treatment
    Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is indicated for prevention of ventricular fibrillation (VF) in patients with the following: […] Survivors of ventricular fibrillation (VF) that does not have a clear and readily reversible cause should undergo placement with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). […] Cardiac surgery can be a primary treatment for VF via a variety of strategies.
  • #32 Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation: Diagnosis, Ablation of Triggers, Gaps in Knowledge, and Future Directions
    https://www.innovationsincrm.com/cardiac-rhythm-management/articles-2020/june/1605-idiopathic-ventricular-fibrillation
    The patient underwent electrophysiology study and successful mapping and ablation of a Purkinje PVC trigger arising from the distal left posterior fascicle. […] Radiofrequency application at the Purkinje site of origin typically resulted in the induction of ventricular arrhythmia and, rarely, VF with subsequent termination. […] The PVC-VF triggers were eliminated and the Purkinje potential was abolished at the conclusion of ablation. […] The prevalence of PVC-IVF triggers in patients with resuscitated VF arrest and ICD shocks due to VF is yet to be determined. […] In view of the proven short- and long-term efficacy of ablation, however, it is important to search for potential PVC-VF triggers in the immediate aftermath of the event using every available tool, including telemetry monitoring, Holter monitoring, and device interrogation. […] The identification and ablation of these PVC-VF triggers, when present, can significantly reduce the likelihood of VF recurrence and its associated morbidities such as syncope, ICD shocks, cardiac arrest, and sudden death.
  • #33 Waiting with Ablated Breath Is This the Cure for Ventricular Fibrillation
    https://health.ucsd.edu/news/press-releases/2019-04-04-waiting-with-ablated-breath-is-this-the-cure-for-ventricular-fibrillation/
    The procedure has since been performed on a handful of patients, all of whom report dramatically fewer or no VF symptoms. […] Targeted ventricular fibrillation ablation is particularly promising for patients suffering from refractory VF, in which a patient can suffer from multiple events within a 24-hour period. […] In targeted ventricular fibrillation ablation, the patient is put under general anesthesia and the defibrillators which prevent them from going into VF are turned off. Doctors then use an electrocardiogram to make a computerized map of the hearts own voltage. […] A specialized catheter is placed into the heart via an incision in the groin, ventricular fibrillation is induced and the patients arrhythmia recorded for 15 seconds. The data is analyzed, providing doctors with a map of specific targets for ablation.
  • #34 Waiting with Ablated Breath Is This the Cure for Ventricular Fibrillation
    https://health.ucsd.edu/news/press-releases/2019-04-04-waiting-with-ablated-breath-is-this-the-cure-for-ventricular-fibrillation/
    An ablation catheter a thin, flexible metal tube with an electrode at one end is used to cauterize sites in the patients heart where voltage is the lowest, eliminating abnormal electrical pathways. […] Its a dramatic procedure, but once you can no longer induce ventricular fibrillation in the patient, its so exciting, Krummen said. […] Delaney is one of the eight patients who have undergone the experimental treatment. She hasnt experienced a single episode of VF since her treatment. There has been a vast improvement in the way I feel. I feel like my heart is beating in sync now. […] This was an opportunity to both get help myself and also to advance the body of knowledge (about treating VF).
  • #35 Ventricular Fibrillation: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-ventricular-fibrillation
    Coronary angioplasty and stent placement. You might get this operation if a heart attack caused your VFib. Your doctor inserts a catheter through an artery and into a blocked artery in your heart. They then inflate a balloon on the end of catheter to open up the artery and restore blood flow. They may also place a mesh tube (stent) in the artery to keep it open. […] Coronary bypass. If coronary artery disease caused your VFib, you might have this type of open-heart surgery. It uses a blood vessel taken from elsewhere in your body to redirect blood around a blocked heart artery. […] Wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). WCDs work much like ICDs, except theyre worn outside your body. Wires connect sensors on your skin to a unit you wear under your clothes. WCDs can be programmed to detect a certain type of arrhythmia such as VFib. […] Refractory VFib is when three shocks in a row from a defibrillator fail to return the heart to a normal rhythm.
  • #36 Ventricular Fibrillation: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-ventricular-fibrillation
    Coronary angioplasty and stent placement. You might get this operation if a heart attack caused your VFib. Your doctor inserts a catheter through an artery and into a blocked artery in your heart. They then inflate a balloon on the end of catheter to open up the artery and restore blood flow. They may also place a mesh tube (stent) in the artery to keep it open. […] Coronary bypass. If coronary artery disease caused your VFib, you might have this type of open-heart surgery. It uses a blood vessel taken from elsewhere in your body to redirect blood around a blocked heart artery. […] Wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). WCDs work much like ICDs, except theyre worn outside your body. Wires connect sensors on your skin to a unit you wear under your clothes. WCDs can be programmed to detect a certain type of arrhythmia such as VFib. […] Refractory VFib is when three shocks in a row from a defibrillator fail to return the heart to a normal rhythm.
  • #37 Ventricular Fibrillation: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-ventricular-fibrillation
    Coronary angioplasty and stent placement. You might get this operation if a heart attack caused your VFib. Your doctor inserts a catheter through an artery and into a blocked artery in your heart. They then inflate a balloon on the end of catheter to open up the artery and restore blood flow. They may also place a mesh tube (stent) in the artery to keep it open. […] Coronary bypass. If coronary artery disease caused your VFib, you might have this type of open-heart surgery. It uses a blood vessel taken from elsewhere in your body to redirect blood around a blocked heart artery. […] Wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). WCDs work much like ICDs, except theyre worn outside your body. Wires connect sensors on your skin to a unit you wear under your clothes. WCDs can be programmed to detect a certain type of arrhythmia such as VFib. […] Refractory VFib is when three shocks in a row from a defibrillator fail to return the heart to a normal rhythm.
  • #38 Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) | Doctor
    https://patient.info/doctor/ventricular-fibrillation
    By itself, CABG only prevents recurrent VF if the ejection fraction is normal and ischaemia was the cause of the arrest. Even in these patients, ICDs are frequently placed after CABG. […] Prognosis for survivors of VF strongly depends on the time elapsed between onset and medical intervention (prognosis is poor without intervention by 4-6 minutes after onset of VF) as well as on the particular aetiology for the VF. […] Early defibrillation often makes the difference between long-term disability and functional recovery. If defibrillation is delivered promptly, survival rates as high as 75% have been reported. […] Education and training of non-healthcare professionals in basic life support and the use of automated external defibrillators in public places probably have the greatest impact on improving survival rates.
  • #39 Ventricular Fibrillation
    https://healthlibrary.olmmed.org/Library/DiseasesConditions/Adult/Cardiovascular/134,230
    Catheter ablation. This procedure uses energy to destroy small areas of your heart affected by the irregular heartbeat. This procedure is a treatment for ventricular tachycardia (V-tach). This often can trigger V-fib. Most people who undergo this procedure already have an ICD […] Left cardiac sympathetic denervation. This is a surgical procedure that might help you if you have frequent V-fib events. It isn’t a common procedure. It is usually reserved for people with uncontrolled V-fib with a genetic predisposition. […] Medicines and certain procedures after an episode of ventricular fibrillation can prevent or reduce the chances of another episode. […] An ICD can promptly treat V-fib.
  • #40 Ventricular fibrillation | Nature Reviews Cardiology
    https://www.nature.com/subjects/ventricular-fibrillation/nrcardio
    Left cardiac sympathetic denervation (LCSD) has antiarrhythmic and antifibrillatory effects that are beneficial for patients with channelopathies, such as long QT syndrome or catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. […] Ventricular tachyarrhythmias are a leading cause of sudden cardiac death (SCD).
  • #41 Ventricular Fibrillation: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/what-is-ventricular-fibrillation
    Coronary angioplasty and stent placement. You might get this operation if a heart attack caused your VFib. Your doctor inserts a catheter through an artery and into a blocked artery in your heart. They then inflate a balloon on the end of catheter to open up the artery and restore blood flow. They may also place a mesh tube (stent) in the artery to keep it open. […] Coronary bypass. If coronary artery disease caused your VFib, you might have this type of open-heart surgery. It uses a blood vessel taken from elsewhere in your body to redirect blood around a blocked heart artery. […] Wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD). WCDs work much like ICDs, except theyre worn outside your body. Wires connect sensors on your skin to a unit you wear under your clothes. WCDs can be programmed to detect a certain type of arrhythmia such as VFib. […] Refractory VFib is when three shocks in a row from a defibrillator fail to return the heart to a normal rhythm.
  • #42 Handling of Ventricular Fibrillation in the Emergency Setting
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7043313/
    Based on the examination of 136 patients, the Hypothermia after Cardiac Arrest Study Group showed that the application of TTM clearly improved neurological outcome and reduced mortality. […] The 2015 resuscitation guideline recommends earliest possible PCI in the case of sudden cardiac death with acute coronary syndrome as the underlying cause. […] In international recommendations, therapy for VF and pVT includes the administration of epinephrine and amiodarone. […] The mechanism of action of epinephrine in the case of cardiac arrest is the consequence to -adrenergic effect, which, by directing systemic blood flow toward the heart increases myocardial blood supply, thus ensuring the minimum coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) required for successful defibrillation. […] In the case of VF recurring after three defibrillations, the administration of 300 mg and later 150 mg of amiodarone is recommended.
  • #43 Ventricular Fibrillation Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Defibrillation, ACLS Algorithm
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-treatment
    Successful defibrillation largely depends on two key factors: the duration of the VF and the metabolic condition of the myocardium. […] Consequently, early defibrillation is vital; emergency medical services (EMS) personnel can perform defibrillation at the scene, long before the patient could be seen at the emergency department (ED). […] Defibrillation success rates decrease about 5%-10% for each minute after the onset of VF. […] The goal is to use the minimum amount of energy required to overcome the threshold of defibrillation. […] Careful postresuscitative care is essential to survival, because studies have shown a 50% repeat in-hospital arrest rate for people admitted after a ventricular fibrillation (VF) event. […] Antiarrhythmics successfully used during resuscitation are usually continued.
  • #44 Ventricular Fibrillation Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Defibrillation, ACLS Algorithm
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-treatment
    Successful defibrillation largely depends on two key factors: the duration of the VF and the metabolic condition of the myocardium. […] Consequently, early defibrillation is vital; emergency medical services (EMS) personnel can perform defibrillation at the scene, long before the patient could be seen at the emergency department (ED). […] Defibrillation success rates decrease about 5%-10% for each minute after the onset of VF. […] The goal is to use the minimum amount of energy required to overcome the threshold of defibrillation. […] Careful postresuscitative care is essential to survival, because studies have shown a 50% repeat in-hospital arrest rate for people admitted after a ventricular fibrillation (VF) event. […] Antiarrhythmics successfully used during resuscitation are usually continued.
  • #45 Handling of Ventricular Fibrillation in the Emergency Setting
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7043313/
    The most effective therapies for ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) are immediate high-quality chest compression as well as early defibrillation, which latter plays a key role in terminating these arrhythmias. […] Survival rate by early defibrillation in the case of resuscitation performed by lay people is 37.4%. […] The necessity of earliest possible electrical treatment is underpinned by the fact that the rate of successful resuscitation falls by 7%10% per min from the circulatory collapse. […] An improvement in the chance of long-term survival and the least neurological damage were found in the case when the initial rhythm observed on site was ventricular fibrillation. […] Another important element of improving the neurological outcome is post-resuscitation care started in time, which includes coronary intervention and targeted temperature management (TTM).
  • #46 Handling of Ventricular Fibrillation in the Emergency Setting
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7043313/
    Based on the examination of 136 patients, the Hypothermia after Cardiac Arrest Study Group showed that the application of TTM clearly improved neurological outcome and reduced mortality. […] The 2015 resuscitation guideline recommends earliest possible PCI in the case of sudden cardiac death with acute coronary syndrome as the underlying cause. […] In international recommendations, therapy for VF and pVT includes the administration of epinephrine and amiodarone. […] The mechanism of action of epinephrine in the case of cardiac arrest is the consequence to -adrenergic effect, which, by directing systemic blood flow toward the heart increases myocardial blood supply, thus ensuring the minimum coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) required for successful defibrillation. […] In the case of VF recurring after three defibrillations, the administration of 300 mg and later 150 mg of amiodarone is recommended.
  • #47 Ventricular fibrillation – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ventricular_fibrillation
    The precordial thump is a manoeuver promoted as a mechanical alternative to defibrillation. Some advanced life support algorithms advocate its use once and only in the case of witnessed and monitored V-fib arrests as the likelihood of it successfully cardioverting a patient are small and this diminishes quickly in the first minute of onset. […] People who survive a „V-fib arrest” and who make a good recovery are often considered for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, which can quickly deliver this same life-saving defibrillation should another episode of ventricular fibrillation occur outside a hospital environment.
  • #48 Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation: Diagnosis, Ablation of Triggers, Gaps in Knowledge, and Future Directions
    https://www.innovationsincrm.com/cardiac-rhythm-management/articles-2020/june/1605-idiopathic-ventricular-fibrillation
    Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (IVF) is a diagnosis of exclusion made when no underlying cause is identified in a cardiac arrest survivor. […] IVF accounts for 5% to 10% of survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. […] Because recurrent VF events are frequent and poorly predictable, placement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is considered first-line therapy for patients with IVF. […] Although ICDs reduce mortality in survivors of IVF, they do not address the IVF substrate; hence, in the absence of substrate modification, recurrent VF, syncope, cardiac arrest, and ICD shocks occur. […] In this review, we will discuss the proposed criteria for IVF diagnosis, previous reports of premature ventricular complex (PVC)-triggered IVF (PVC-VF) or short-coupled torsades de pointes (sc-Tdp), diagnostic strategies to identify potential candidate PVC-VF triggers for radiofrequency ablation, and future directions on screening for IVF substrate in SCA survivors.
  • #49 Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation: Diagnosis, Ablation of Triggers, Gaps in Knowledge, and Future Directions
    https://www.innovationsincrm.com/cardiac-rhythm-management/articles-2020/june/1605-idiopathic-ventricular-fibrillation
    Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (IVF) is a diagnosis of exclusion made when no underlying cause is identified in a cardiac arrest survivor. […] IVF accounts for 5% to 10% of survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. […] Because recurrent VF events are frequent and poorly predictable, placement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is considered first-line therapy for patients with IVF. […] Although ICDs reduce mortality in survivors of IVF, they do not address the IVF substrate; hence, in the absence of substrate modification, recurrent VF, syncope, cardiac arrest, and ICD shocks occur. […] In this review, we will discuss the proposed criteria for IVF diagnosis, previous reports of premature ventricular complex (PVC)-triggered IVF (PVC-VF) or short-coupled torsades de pointes (sc-Tdp), diagnostic strategies to identify potential candidate PVC-VF triggers for radiofrequency ablation, and future directions on screening for IVF substrate in SCA survivors.
  • #50 Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation: Diagnosis, Ablation of Triggers, Gaps in Knowledge, and Future Directions
    https://www.innovationsincrm.com/cardiac-rhythm-management/articles-2020/june/1605-idiopathic-ventricular-fibrillation
    Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (IVF) is a diagnosis of exclusion made when no underlying cause is identified in a cardiac arrest survivor. […] IVF accounts for 5% to 10% of survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. […] Because recurrent VF events are frequent and poorly predictable, placement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is considered first-line therapy for patients with IVF. […] Although ICDs reduce mortality in survivors of IVF, they do not address the IVF substrate; hence, in the absence of substrate modification, recurrent VF, syncope, cardiac arrest, and ICD shocks occur. […] In this review, we will discuss the proposed criteria for IVF diagnosis, previous reports of premature ventricular complex (PVC)-triggered IVF (PVC-VF) or short-coupled torsades de pointes (sc-Tdp), diagnostic strategies to identify potential candidate PVC-VF triggers for radiofrequency ablation, and future directions on screening for IVF substrate in SCA survivors.
  • #51 Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation: Diagnosis, Ablation of Triggers, Gaps in Knowledge, and Future Directions
    https://www.innovationsincrm.com/cardiac-rhythm-management/articles-2020/june/1605-idiopathic-ventricular-fibrillation
    Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (IVF) is a diagnosis of exclusion made when no underlying cause is identified in a cardiac arrest survivor. […] IVF accounts for 5% to 10% of survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. […] Because recurrent VF events are frequent and poorly predictable, placement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is considered first-line therapy for patients with IVF. […] Although ICDs reduce mortality in survivors of IVF, they do not address the IVF substrate; hence, in the absence of substrate modification, recurrent VF, syncope, cardiac arrest, and ICD shocks occur. […] In this review, we will discuss the proposed criteria for IVF diagnosis, previous reports of premature ventricular complex (PVC)-triggered IVF (PVC-VF) or short-coupled torsades de pointes (sc-Tdp), diagnostic strategies to identify potential candidate PVC-VF triggers for radiofrequency ablation, and future directions on screening for IVF substrate in SCA survivors.
  • #52 The Role of Medical Therapy in Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation – touchCARDIOLOGY
    https://touchcardio.com/arrhythmia/journal-articles/the-role-of-medical-therapy-in-idiopathic-ventricular-fibrillation/
    Both guidelines and expert consensus documents agree that implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) implantation is recommended in patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic VF (class I). Optimal pharmacological treatment is less well defined due to the low prevalence of the condition and the absence of randomised case control studies. […] The long-term efficacy of quinidine was confirmed by the same group over 20 years later in nine subjects with idiopathic VF or Brugada syndrome with previous cardiac arrest or syncope. […] According to the most recent guidelines, the use of IV calcium channel blockers should be considered for the acute management of VF storms or recurrent ICD discharges in subjects with short-coupled TdP (class IIb). […] Thus, whilst not formally mentioned in the guidelines, quinidine can also be useful in suppression of PVCs.
  • #53 The Role of Medical Therapy in Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation – touchCARDIOLOGY
    https://touchcardio.com/arrhythmia/journal-articles/the-role-of-medical-therapy-in-idiopathic-ventricular-fibrillation/
    Idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a diagnosis of exclusion following a resuscitated cardiac arrest which remain unexplained after comprehensive cardiac, respiratory, metabolic and toxicological evaluation. […] Secondary prevention with an automated implantable cardiac defibrillator is a cornerstone in idiopathic VF treatment. Ablation strategies may also play a role where a substrate is identified. […] Use of IV calcium channel antagonists and isoprenaline for the acute management of VF has proven effective in idiopathic VF associated with short-coupled Torsades de Pointes and early repolarisation, respectively. […] Despite the lack of large-scale data, long-term prophylaxis with quinidine seems to be effective in suppressing VF recurrence, regardless of the associated electrocardiogram phenotype.
  • #54 The Role of Medical Therapy in Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation – touchCARDIOLOGY
    https://touchcardio.com/arrhythmia/journal-articles/the-role-of-medical-therapy-in-idiopathic-ventricular-fibrillation/
    Both guidelines and expert consensus documents agree that implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) implantation is recommended in patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic VF (class I). Optimal pharmacological treatment is less well defined due to the low prevalence of the condition and the absence of randomised case control studies. […] The long-term efficacy of quinidine was confirmed by the same group over 20 years later in nine subjects with idiopathic VF or Brugada syndrome with previous cardiac arrest or syncope. […] According to the most recent guidelines, the use of IV calcium channel blockers should be considered for the acute management of VF storms or recurrent ICD discharges in subjects with short-coupled TdP (class IIb). […] Thus, whilst not formally mentioned in the guidelines, quinidine can also be useful in suppression of PVCs.
  • #55 Ventricular Fibrillation Treatment & Management: Approach Considerations, Defibrillation, ACLS Algorithm
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/158712-treatment
    Successful defibrillation largely depends on two key factors: the duration of the VF and the metabolic condition of the myocardium. […] Consequently, early defibrillation is vital; emergency medical services (EMS) personnel can perform defibrillation at the scene, long before the patient could be seen at the emergency department (ED). […] Defibrillation success rates decrease about 5%-10% for each minute after the onset of VF. […] The goal is to use the minimum amount of energy required to overcome the threshold of defibrillation. […] Careful postresuscitative care is essential to survival, because studies have shown a 50% repeat in-hospital arrest rate for people admitted after a ventricular fibrillation (VF) event. […] Antiarrhythmics successfully used during resuscitation are usually continued.
  • #56 Ventricular Fibrillation – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537120/
    Patients receiving prompt defibrillation have shown improved survival (39.3%) compared to patients in whom defibrillation was delayed by 2 minutes or more (22.2%). […] Administer epinephrine and amiodarone as per ACLS protocol in patients sustaining VF rhythm regardless of receiving 3 shocks. […] Amiodarone significantly improves survival to hospital admission without affecting survival to hospital discharge. […] Identifying and addressing the cause of inciting event is equally important. […] Once the patient attains return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), physicians should begin a definitive evaluation for coronary artery disease. […] Primary prevention has been a significant factor in reducing VF-related SCDs. […] Most VF transition from VT and other VA and hence identifying such arrhythmias at an early stage can help prevent VF.
  • #57 Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) | Doctor
    https://patient.info/doctor/ventricular-fibrillation
    By itself, CABG only prevents recurrent VF if the ejection fraction is normal and ischaemia was the cause of the arrest. Even in these patients, ICDs are frequently placed after CABG. […] Prognosis for survivors of VF strongly depends on the time elapsed between onset and medical intervention (prognosis is poor without intervention by 4-6 minutes after onset of VF) as well as on the particular aetiology for the VF. […] Early defibrillation often makes the difference between long-term disability and functional recovery. If defibrillation is delivered promptly, survival rates as high as 75% have been reported. […] Education and training of non-healthcare professionals in basic life support and the use of automated external defibrillators in public places probably have the greatest impact on improving survival rates.