RT Journal
A1 Reier CE, Hamelberg W
T1 COnscious analgesia and amnesia for cardioversion
JF JAMA
JO JAMA
YR 1969
FD December 15
VO 210
IS 11
SP 2052
OP 2054
DO 10.1001/jama.1969.03160370036006
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.1969.03160370036006
AB Conscious analgesia (stage I, plane 3) produced by the inhalation of methoxyflurane was used in 20 consecutive patients who underwent 22 elective direct-current countershock procedures for supraventricular arrhythmias. After the drug had been administered in concentrations adequate to produce signs of perseveration, loss of memory, delayed response to verbal commands, and inability to focus eyes, the direct-current countershock was delivered. Although the patients responded to verbal commands just prior to the procedure, postoperative interviews revealed complete amnesia. No significant changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or ventilation were noted. Following the procedure, emergence to an alert, oriented state occurred within two to five minutes. The technique provided both analgesia and amnesia—but without general anesthesia.