Intractable ventricular fibrillation associated with profound accidental hypothermia--successful treatment with partial cardiopulmonary bypass.

Abstract

IN the following case of profound accidental hypothermia intractable ventricular fibrillation was reversed after two hours by rapid rewarming with the use of partial cardiopulmonary bypass followed by electroversion.Case ReportA 58-year-old alcoholic man was admitted to the hospital comatose with a rectal temperature of 25°C and a blood pressure of 80/? mm Hg. There were no localizing neurologic signs; the pupils were equal and reacted normally to light. An electrocardiogram showed an idioventricular rhythm of 35 per minute and prominent "Osborne" or "J" waves. An atrial electrogram showed an irregular atrial rate of 230 per minute. The hematocrit . . .