Biochemical termination of sustained fibrillation occurring after artificially induced ischemic arrest

A method of biochemical termination of persistent ventricular fibrillation is presented. The technique consists of re-cross-clamping the ascending aorta while the patient is still on cardiopulmonary bypass, infusing 37 degrees C buffered potassium cardioplegic solution into the coronary system, and, after having achieved flaccid standstill, pacing the heart by the ventricular mode.