CARDIAC RESUSCITATION--THE PRESENT STATUS OF DEFIBRILLATION AND STIMULATION TECHNIQUES

Recent advances in electrical treatment and control of the heart are reviewed. The methods which have evolved for AC and DC countershock defibrillation and arrhythmia correction are outlined, and the parameters defined for determination of the efficacy of treatment.The principal types of cardiac stimulation are described and evaluated in terms of their electrical energy requirements. Externally controlled and implanted stimulators are compared and causes of failure stated.Current developments, reported at a recent Conference on Pacemakers, are included, with a summary of discussions by leading investigators in the field.Studies conducted by the National Research Council (Canada) medical electronics laboratory are also discussed.