What is it?
A “DCR” is performed by a cardiologist under sedation administered by an anaesthetist. Once in a gown, we will apply DCR pads to your chest and back. The anaesthetist will then put you to sleep. Once asleep, an electric current (occasionally multiple times) is delivered to your chest to attempt to “revert” your heart back to normal rhythm.
How to Prepare
Do not having anything to eat or drink (other than a sip of water for medications) for at least 6 hours prior to the test.
Please take all regular medications (including blood thinners) including the morning of the test with a small sip of water.
You will need someone to pick you up after the test and to be with you for the rest of that day / evening.
Please continue your blood thinner after the procedure.
How Long Does it Take?
Total time in the hospital is in the order of 2-3 hours which includes preparation time and recovery time. The “DCR” itself usually takes about 10 minutes.
WHY DO WE DO IT?
A “DCR” is performed to attempt to restore your heart to a normal rhythm. It is most commonly performed in an arranged fashion to treat atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. You may have also heard of the procedure being performed for other more dangerous heart rhythm disturbances in the context of an emergency.
Potential Complications
Stroke ~0.5-1% risk. This risk is minimised by taking an effective blood thinner – either warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban or dabigatran for at least a month prior to the procedure. Alternatively, a transesophageal echo or “TOE” may be performed prior to the test to ensure there are no pre-existing clots prior to the “DCR.”
Failure of the procedure – unfortunately we cannot successfully revert everyone back to normal rhythm. Occasionally repeat procedures are performed following a change in medication.
Pain at the site of the pads after the procedure – usually settles over 48 hours.
Allergy to the anaesthetic agent.