Related Experiment Videos
[The usefulness of diving reflex--the effect on PSVT]
1Department of Internal Medicine, Inabe Kosei Hospital.
Kokyu to Junkan. Respiration & Circulation
|February 1, 1991
Summary
The diving reflex, involving facial immersion in cold water and breath-holding, successfully treated paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) in three out of five patients. This method offers a potential alternative when other treatments fail.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Physiology
Background:
- Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is a common cardiac arrhythmia.
- Carotid-sinus massage is a standard treatment for PSVT, but it is not always effective.
Observation:
- The diving reflex was induced by facial immersion in ice water (4°C) with breath-holding.
- Five patients with PSVT refractory to carotid-sinus massage were treated using the diving reflex.
Findings:
- PSVT converted to normal sinus rhythm in three out of five patients.
- Successful treatment duration varied, with some cases responding quickly to cold water stimulation and others requiring longer apnea.
- Two patients did not respond due to insufficient breath-holding duration.
Implications:
- The diving reflex is a viable, non-invasive treatment option for PSVT.
- Apnea and facial cold stimulation appear to be key components in terminating PSVT via the diving reflex.
- Further research is warranted to optimize the application of the diving reflex for PSVT management.