Management of intractable angina pectoris by implantation of a carotid sinus nerve stimulator.

This paper discusses the management of patients with intractable angina pectoris, and describes the first year's experience with implantation of a carotid sinus nerve stimulator. Seven patients had such stimulators installed; all showed objective evidence of stimulator action through a drop in blood pressure and/or pulse rate. All seven have since shown considerable improvement, enabling them to lead more comfortable lives. One patient derived initially little benefit; this was traced to a mechanical failure of the device which was corrected. However, this patient died of an acute myocardial infarction 15 months after the operation.