Table 1.

Classification of CSS (after Brignole and Menozzi ⁶ ).

Dominant Cardioinhibitory CSS

Initial CSM: Ventricular asystole >3s+ reproduction of spontaneous symptoms. CSM + Atropine: Absence of ventricular asystole and symptoms (Vasodepressor component either insufficient to cause symptoms or absent).

Mixed CSS

Initial CSM: Ventricular asystole >3s+ reproduction of spontaneous symptoms. CSM + Atropine: BP fall >50mmHg with reproduction of spontaneous symptoms.

Dominant Vasodepressor CSS

Initial CSM: Ventricular asystole absent or < 3s+ BP fall >50mmHg with reproduction of spontaneous symptoms. CSM + Atropine: Ventricular asystole absent, BP fall as with Initial CSM + reproduction of spontaneous symptoms.

CSS = Carotid sinus syndrome, CSM = Carotid sinus massage, BP = Blood pressure. Atropine administered IV 0.02 mg/kg body weight.