Supraventricular tachycardia in infants: use of the "diving reflex"

Am J Cardiol. 1983 Jan 15;51(2):286-7. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9149(83)80051-4.

Abstract

The effectiveness of the "diving reflex" in treating paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) in 10 infants aged under 6 months is demonstrated. No rhythm disturbances were encountered during the maneuver, even in patients receiving digitalis. The recommended water temperature is 5 degrees C and the total time of facial immersion, between 6 and 7 seconds. The diving reflex might be considered the first therapeutic approach in infants under 6 months old with PSVT.

MeSH terms

  • Electrocardiography
  • Female
  • Heart Rate
  • Humans
  • Immersion*
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Reflex*
  • Tachycardia, Paroxysmal / therapy*
  • Vasoconstriction