Transient appearance of Brugada-like Type 1 electrocardiogram pattern immediately after biphasic synchronized electrical cardioversion for atrial fibrillation: a case series

Background: ST-segment deviation post-electrical cardioversion is a common finding amongst a significant number of patients. However, the mechanism by which this phenomenon occurs and its clinical implications are not fully understood.

Case summary: Four patients presented to our department with complaints of palpitations. They were found to have atrial fibrillation and were cardioverted using a synchronized direct current shock at 200 J. However, their telemetry immediately after the shock showed transiently an ST-segment elevation resembling Brugada Type 1 pattern. All telemetries normalized within 6 s from cardioversion.

Discussion: Through this report, we aim to raise mild concern about a possible safety issue related to synchronized electrical cardioversion with electrodes positioned in an anteroposterior fashion. Also, we try to give a pathophysiological explanation to this finding on the base of the knowledge accumulated through the years on Brugada syndrome.