Dr. Zoll demonstrated for the first time
in 1952, that when a human
heart stops, it can be induced, by externally applied electric stimulation,
to resume beating.
Dr. Zoll's later studies showed that externally applied,
alternating current counter shocks are similarly effective
in stopping ventricular fibrillation, and also in correcting
a number of other serious, potentially lethal, abnormalities
of rhythm.
In addition, Dr. Zoll developed the theory and technique
of continuous cardiac monitoring of heart rhythm, and was
the first to apply this
method clinically. The Coronary Care Unit now found in every well-equipped
hospital is a further development of this life-saving concept.
Pacemakers, which have saved thousands of people from
sudden and unpredictable death, are Dr. Zoll's invention.
One measure of the good that pacemakers have done, and
the need there is for them, is the fact that more than
60,000 Americans have received pacemakers, and an estimated
12,000 to 15,000 new pacemakers are implanted annually.
For Dr. Zoll's many and brilliant contributions in this
vital area of cardiac care, this 1973 Albert Lasker Clinical
Cardiovascular Research Award is given.
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