Conversion of paroxysmal atrial tachycardia by facial immersion in ice water

Based on the concept of the classic diving reflex, which produced bradycardia, a technique for treating uncomplicated, but symptomatic, paroxysmal atrial tachycardia was developed. This technique consists of facial immersion for 15 to 30 seconds in water at 10 C (50 F). Of ten patients 9 (90%) achieved rapid conversion without complications. This technique may be especially useful for those patients resistant to more conventional methods of inducing conversion of paroxysmal atrial tachycardia.