Operating Principles of a Heart Defibrillator

1. What is a Heart Defibrillator?

A heart defibrillator is a specialized medical device designed to deliver a high-intensity electric pulse to the heart muscle to treat life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.

The device operates by discharging electrical energy through electrode pads placed on the patient's chest, creating a shock strong enough to "reset" the heart to a normal rhythm.

There are main types of defibrillators:

• Automated External Defibrillator (AED): This machine automatically analyzes the patient's heart rhythm and diagnoses whether a shock is needed. This device is commonly found in public places and is very easy to use. It provides voice prompts and visual displays so that anyone can use it in emergency situations.
• Manual External Defibrillator: This type requires a medical professional to perform the rescue operation. It is typically found in hospitals and emergency rooms.
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): As the name suggests, this device is implanted under the patient's skin to monitor heart rhythm and automatically deliver a shock when an abnormal rhythm is detected. It is often used for patients with serious cardiovascular issues, providing 24/7 monitoring.

2. Detailed Operating Principles of a Heart Defibrillator

True to its name, a defibrillator works by releasing an electric pulse through the heart to correct the victim's arrhythmias, helping to restore a normal heartbeat.

The detailed operating steps are as follows:

• Step 1: Detection and Analysis. The machine continuously monitors the heart rhythm. Upon detecting a dangerous arrhythmia, it analyzes the signals to identify the specific type of disorder the victim is experiencing.
• Step 2: Energy Storage. The necessary energy is accumulated in the capacitor.
• Step 3: Discharge. When commanded, the machine releases the stored electric pulse through the electrodes into the patient's body. This current passes through the chest wall and acts directly on the heart and heart muscle.
• Step 4: Myocardial Depolarization. The strong electric pulse causes the heart muscle cells to momentarily stop their electrical activity. This "reboot" eliminates the chaotic electrical signals, allowing the heart's natural pacemaker to re-establish a normal rhythm.
• Step 5: Rhythm Recovery. After the shock, the heart stops quivering and begins to contract in a regular rhythm to pump blood throughout the body. The rescuer must continue CPR while the device re-evaluates the victim's heart rhythm.

3. Basic Structure of a Defibrillator

Typically, a defibrillator consists of the following main components:

• Casing and Protective Frame: Made from ABS plastic or polycarbonate, these are impact-resistant, durable, and electrically insulated for safety. Modern defibrillators are also equipped with water and dust resistance technology to ensure durability.
• Power Source: Usually a lithium battery or a specialized high-capacity battery to power the entire system.
• Capacitor: A crucial component responsible for storing and releasing electrical energy.
• Central Processor and Analysis Algorithm: The "brain" of the AED. It is programmed to analyze and determine the appropriate moment to deliver a shock.
• Electrode Pads: These accessories need to be checked and replaced regularly. The pads contain two layers of conductive gel, serving to both receive heart signals and transmit the electric shock to the heart.
• Display Screen: Allows for monitoring of the rescue process and provides CPR guidance for the user.
• Speaker System: Provides step-by-step voice instructions to help the rescuer perform first aid easily.
• Control Buttons: Minimalist design, making it easy to use even for those without deep medical expertise.
• Data Storage: Records the entire usage process, allowing experts to evaluate and analyze the quality of the rescue afterward.

Understanding the operating principles of a heart defibrillator not only boosts confidence when using the device but also increases the patient's chances of survival and recovery. Therefore, choosing a supplier that offers technical support, user training, and periodic maintenance is the wisest choice for everyone.