P6572Sinus arrest post-cardioversion

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Sinus arrest remains a recognized but likely underreported complication of cardioversion, with incidence ranging widely in the literature, from virtually 0% to 1.5%. After a case of elective cardioversion resulting in the need for ECMO support, we investigated possible risk factors that could help predict adverse outcomes after cardioversion. Hypothesis Cardioversion, while generally benign, is not without risks, and further study may help elucidate predictors of morbidity and mortality. Methods We retrospectively reviewed data of all patients who underwent cardioversion at three hospitals within the Lifespan health system, Rhode Island Hospital, Newport Hospital, and the Miriam Hospital, between 2000 and 2015. 23 patients who experienced sinus arrest after cardioversion, and characteristics of these patients were compared with those of 3:1 age-and-gender matched controls using binomial logistic regression analysis on Stata. Results Of 12,156 patients who underwent cardioversion, 23 patients (57% male, mean age 78±14), or 0.18%, experienced immediate post-cardioversion sinus arrest, defined as absence of sinus activity for greater than five seconds. Compared with 3:1 age-and-gender-matched controls who underwent cardioversion without incident, binomial logistic regression revealed that paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (OR 11.8; 95% CI 1.85–75.72; p=0.009), beta-blocker use (OR 58.0; 95% CI 2.4–1404.48; p=0.013), Amiodarone use (OR 19.9; 95% CI 2.0–198.32; p=0.011), and elevated ventricular rate (CV 0.028; 95% CI 0.0031–0.053; p=0.027) were statistically significant predictors of sinus arrest after cardioversion. Calcium-channel blocker use, Digoxin use, age, gender, PR interval, QRS duration, and corrected QT interval were not significant associations. Conclusions Sparse data exists regarding characteristics predisposing patients to adverse outcomes following cardioversion, and further risk stratification is warranted, given the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. Our findings raise questions that demand elucidation, such as whether beta-blockers or Amiodarone should be held prior to cardioversion.