[Carotid sinus pressure as an aid for the detection of latent asystole].

For the detection of intermitting blockings the pressure of the carotid sinus was used. In 21 patients with ascertained intermitting block the pressure of the carotid sinus caused an asystolia during 3 seconds. In control persons such a duration of asystolia could not be observed. Despite spontaneous blockings not in every case a pathological pressure of the carotid sinus was present. Diagnostic and therapeutic aspects as well as influences on the result of the reflex are discussed.