Deep Burn Following DC Cardioversion: A Case Report

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: DC cardioversion is the treatment choice for atrial fibrillation and flutter. Because of the high voltage power across the thorax, most patients suffer some degree of superficial erythema or burn at the pad site. 2nd or 3rd degree burn and muscle necrosis is very rare after shock. We experienced one case of 3rd degree burn with ulceration after DC cardioversion. METHODS: A 44-year-old male was admitted to local hospital with the presenting palpitation and atrial fibrillation on ECG. During radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for the treatment of atrial fibrillatoin, DC cardioversion was performed. The patient did not complain of any pain or discomfort at the pad site during or immediately after the procedure. Approximately 14 days after the shock, he had blisters at the pad site. But he received simple dressing treatment at the local hospital for 6 months. When he visited our burn clinic, there was 3x5 cm sized 3rd degree burn with eschar and necrotic fat tissue at the pad site of right back. Surgical removal of a necrotic tissue was performed on the patient by STSG (Split thickness skin graft) with Matriderm(R). RESULTS: Muscle fascia was exposed after debridement of the necrotic skin and fat tissue. The skin graft was well taken within 2 weeks after operation. CONCLUSION: In case of using monophasic 360 J, approximately 3,000 V energy is discharged. The energy is sufficient to cause burn injury to skin. Damage may result both thermal burn and electrical burn. The burn degree in the electric circuit is proportional to amperage and time, is inversely proportional to pad site area. We therefore suggest that in order to reduce deep burn, DC cardioversion is started with lower energy shocks, proper pad placement and correct pad application is important. And we give a notice that deep pad burn possibly occur after the cardioversion procedure.