Abstract 199: Miniaturized Chest Compressor Improves Neurological Recovery in a Porcine Cardiac Arrest Model

Abstract

During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), blood flow generated by chest compression is the most important factor for successful resuscitation. In the present study, we investigated the effects of a newly developed miniaturized chest compressor (MCC) on carotid blood flow (CBF) and neurological alertness score (NAS) in a porcine model of cardiac arrest. We hypothesized that MCC would yield equal or better CBF and post resuscitation neurological function when compared to a conventional mechanical device (Thumper). Ventricular fibrillation (VF) was induced in domestic pigs weighing between 35 and 36 kg. CPR was initiated after 7 minutes of untreated VF. Animals were randomized to receive mechanical chest compression with either the MCC or Thumper. Both devices provided the same compression rate of 100/min. The initial compression depth was adjusted to achieve a coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) above 12 mm Hg. After 5 minutes of CPR, a single 150J defibrillation (DF) was delivered. If resuscitation was not successful, CPR was continued for 2 minutes before the next DF. The protocol was continued until successful resuscitation or for a total of 15 minutes. After resuscitation, the NAS was measured daily. All animals were resuscitated except 1 from the Thumper group. The CBF during CPR was significantly greater in the MCC group when compared to the Thumper group (Table). A significantly better NAS was observed after resuscitation in the MCC group (Table). MCC significantly increased CBF during CPR which was associated with a significantly improved postresuscitation neurological function.