Influence of Pre-Electrical Cardioversion Potassium Test Timing on Ventricular Arrhythmic Complications and Success Rates

Abstract

Objectives: Elective electrical cardioversion (ECV) is frequently used for supraventricular tachycardia therapy. However, the success rate of this approach varies, and ventricular arrhythmias may develop as a consequence. We aimed to determine whether the timing of pre-ECV potassium serum testing affects patient outcomes. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 65 patients who underwent elective ECV in 2023. Patients were divided into two groups (short-interval vs long-interval) based on the median time (in days) between the potassium test and ECV. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of ventricular arrhythmias, whereas the secondary outcome measure was immediate restoration of sinus rhythm. Results: The median time between the potassium test and ECV was 57 (interquartile range 135) days. No ventricular arrhythmias were observed. There was no statistically significant difference in success rates between the two groups (84.8% versus 84.4%; p=0.958; χ2 test). Predetermined risk factors for potassium disturbances did not influence success rates. Conclusion: Our study suggests that the timing of potassium serum testing does not influence the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias following elective ECV. In addition, the timing of serum potassium testing did not influence the success rate. Therefore, potassium testing shortly before cardioversion may not be necessary.

Keywords

• electrical cardioversion
• potassium
• ventricular arrhythmias
• serum testing