Accidental "cranial" defibrillation.

A case of accidental shock to the head, caused by a cardiac defibrillator, is presented. The shock resulted in minor burns and symptoms similar to those of postelectro-convulsive shock therapy (ECT). A physician participating in an advanced life support course, and familiar with the equipment, was the victim. An assumption that the demonstration equipment was not real seems to have been the cause of the accident. Suggestions for prevention of further episodes are discussed.