Ballistokardiographische Untersuchungen über die Wirkung von Lanatosid C auf das Herz des Gesunden

The effect of a digitalis glycoside (Lanatoside C) was studied in healthy young men by ultralow frequency ballistocardiography (Ulf-BCG). This method does not discomfort the subject at any time during the experimental procedure, secures true resting conditions and offers the possibility to arrange control experiments. In the same tracing BCG, carotid pulse, ECG and in some experiments phonocardiograms were recorded. Following the administration of digitalis we found 1. shortening of the isometric contraction 2. increased rate of blood flow during the initial ejection phase 3. decrease of the total systolic time. These findings are consistent with an increase of myocardial contractility. Digitalis also prolongs the duration of diastole partly by slowing the heart. Stroke volume and output decreased, the arterial pressure rose. Flattening of the T-waves was observed in the ECG. These findings are brought into relation with the results reported in the literature and the problems inherent in the demonstration of a digitalis effect in the non failing heart are reviewed. Finally the use of digitalis in heart disease in the absence of heart failure is discussed.