Different Waveforms, Different Results

1. Different Waveforms, Different Results Understanding the Differences Between Biphasic Technologies Defibrillation has remained largely unchanged since the 1960s. As a result the clinical performance of defibrillators is taken for granted. We tend to think that they all work the same. Biphasic technologies change the way we evaluate defibrillators. Instead of focusing on the size, shape, and weight of the box, we must now consider the therapeutic value delivered by each technology. The title of this presentation summarizes the two essential points we need to understand. First, in contrast to conventional monophasic defibrillation, biphasic technologies differ. Second, as a result of these technical differences clinical variation is expected, and seen, in the reported literature.Defibrillation has remained largely unchanged since the 1960s. As a result the clinical performance of defibrillators is taken for granted. We tend to think that they all work the same. Biphasic technologies change the way we evaluate defibrillators. Instead of focusing on the size, shape, and weight of the box, we must now consider the therapeutic value delivered by each technology. The title of this presentation summarizes the two essential points we need to understand. First, in contrast to conventional monophasic defibrillation, biphasic technologies differ. Second, as a result of these technical differences clinical variation is expected, and seen, in the reported literature.

2. Defibrillation Waveforms Waveforms describe the electrical pulse Current Delivery Time Direction of Current Flow Three in use today Monophasic Damped Sine Wave (MDS) Biphasic Truncated Exponential (BTE) Rectilinear Biphasic (RBW) Let�s start by taking a moment to understand the term �defibrillation waveform.� We can think of a waveform as a �prescription� for the electrical therapy. A waveform describes the amount of current delivered, the time over which it�s administered, and how it flows from the defibrillator. Three main waveforms are available for clinical use today. Let�s take a closer look at each. Let�s start by taking a moment to understand the term �defibrillation waveform.� We can think of a waveform as a �prescription� for the electrical therapy. A waveform describes the amount of current delivered, the time over which it�s administered, and how it flows from the defibrillator. Three main waveforms are available for clinical use today. Let�s take a closer look at each.

3. Damped Sine Wave Unchanged for 30 Years Requires high energy and current. Not highly effective for patients with high transthoracic impedance.