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Ventricular Fibrillation

A life-threatening arrhythmia with rapid, chaotic electrical activity in the ventricles and loss of effective contraction.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Ventricular Fibrillation?

Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a life-threatening arrhythmia with rapid, chaotic and uncoordinated electrical activity in the ventricles, during which effective mechanical contraction is lost and cardiac output falls to zero. Without treatment it leads to sudden cardiac death within minutes.

VF occurs most often in acute ischemic syndromes, cardiomyopathies, electrolyte disturbances and inherited channelopathies. Early defibrillation is the most important determinant of survival; each minute of delay reduces survival by 7–10%.

Treatment consists of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), defibrillation, epinephrine and amiodarone administration, followed by targeted temperature management, coronary angiography and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation after return of circulation.

Symptoms

Sudden loss of consciousness
Respiratory arrest
Absent pulse
Convulsive movements
Cyanosis
Preceding chest pain or palpitations
Sometimes no preceding symptoms

Risk Factors

Acute myocardial infarction
Ischemic heart disease
Dilated or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Electrolyte disturbances (hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia)
Inherited channelopathies (long QT, Brugada)
Drug toxicity (QT-prolonging agents)
Cocaine and other stimulant use

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call emergency services for any patient with sudden loss of consciousness
  • Arrhythmia monitoring in patients who have had an MI
  • Family history of sudden cardiac death
  • Recurrent syncope
  • Evaluation for ICD in high-risk cardiac patients

Treatment Methods

01
Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
02
Early defibrillation (200 J biphasic)
03
Advanced life support (epinephrine, amiodarone)
04
Airway management and oxygenation
05
Targeted temperature management after resuscitation
06
ICD implantation in appropriate candidates

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

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Heart Failure

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Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

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Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

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Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

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Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.