Cardiac Arrest and the Role of Thrombolytic Agents

Abstract

<h2>Abstract</h2> Thrombolytic agents may have clinically significant beneficial effects in cardiac arrest. The application of thrombolytic drugs in the setting of current and antecedent cardiopulmonary resuscitation is well documented; however, it has not been systematically studied nor has it been widely considered. We provide a literature review of thrombolytic agents and cardiopulmonary resuscitation to discuss the need for randomized controlled trials and the possibility of benefits in acute resuscitation. [Newman DH, Greenwald I, Callaway CW. Cardiac arrest and the role of thrombolytic agents. <i>Ann Emerg Med</i> . May 2000;35:472-480.]