electromechanical dissociation

e·lec·tro·me·chan·i·cal dissociation (-lktr-m-kn-kl)

n.

Persistence of electrical activity in the heart without an associated mechanical contraction; it is often a sign of cardiac rupture.

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electromechanical dissociation

when the electrical impulse passes through the system but no movement occurs, e.g. in ECG recordings.

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electromechanical dissociation Cardiology A pattern of cardiac arrest for which there is often inadequate treatment, characterized by mechanical failure with adequate, albeit occasionally bizarre electrical activity, seen in²⁄₃ of sudden cardiac deaths Management Atropine might be effective; nonpharmacologic interventions–eg MAST suit, pericardiocentesis, fluid challenge, needle thoracostomy, do not improve survival. See Wandering pacemaker.