A monophasic defibrillator is a type of defibrillator that delivers a high-energy electrical shock in a single direction through the heart, from one electrode pad to the other. The term ‘monophasic’ (meaning ‘one phase’ or ‘one direction’) distinguishes this older technology from biphasic defibrillators, which deliver a current that first flows in one direction and … Read more
MONA is a mnemonic standing for Morphine, Oxygen, Nitrates, and Aspirin, historically used to summarise the immediate initial management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), including unstable angina, NSTEMI, and STEMI. Aspirin (300mg, chewed) is the most evidence-based component and remains standard first-line treatment for all acute coronary syndromes: it inhibits platelet aggregation and reduces thrombus … Read more
A surgical procedure that treats chronic atrial fibrillation by creating scar tissue in the atrial muscle to block disorganised electrical signals and restore normal rhythm. Most often performed alongside valve or bypass surgery. High success rates but largely superseded for standalone AF by catheter ablation.