Evaluation of electrode polarity on defibrillation efficacy

Present Understanding of Shock Polarity for Internal Defibrillation: The Obvious and Non‐Obvious Clinical Implications

“…In the rare case where two epicardial patches are required, we have only the guidance from older monophasic studies. This suggests that the left ventricular patch should be the anode, 40,41 perhaps since it directly affects more myocardium than the RV patch.…”

European Resuscitation Council Guidelines 2000 for Adult Advanced Life Support

“…36 37 Although the polarity of the electrodes affects success with internal techniques such as implantable defibrillators, during transthoracic defibrillation the polarity of the paddles seems unimportant. [38][39][40] Airway management and ventilation In 1996 guidelines for the advanced management of the airway and ventilation during resuscitation were published by a working group of the European Resuscitation Council. 41 These guidelines outline basic and advanced approaches to airway management together with their separate indications, contraindications, and descriptions of the procedures.…”

The 1998 European Resuscitation Council guidelines for adult advanced life support

“…36 37 Although the polarity of the electrodes affects success with internal techniques such as implantable defibrillators, during transthoracic defibrillation the polarity of the paddles seems unimportant 38 39 40…”