Perkins, Gavin D., Brace, Samantha J. and Gates, Simon (2010) Mechanical chest-compression devices: current and future roles. Current Opinion in Critical Care, Vol.16 (No.3). pp. 203-210. doi:10.1097/MCC.0b013e328339cf59

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Abstract

Purpose of review: It is recognised that the quality of CPR is an important predictor of outcome from cardiac arrest yet studies consistently demonstrate that the quality of CPR performed in real life is frequently sub-optimal. Mechanical chest compression devices provide an alternative to manual CPR. This review will consider the evidence and current indications for the use of these devices.
Recent findings: Physiological and animal data suggest that mechanical chest compression devices are more effective than manual CPR. However there is no high quality evidence showing improved outcomes in humans. There are specific circumstances where it may not be possible to perform manual CPR effectively e.g. during ambulance transport to hospital, en-route to and during cardiac catheterisation, prior to organ donation and during diagnostic imaging where using these devices may be advantageous.
Summary: There is insufficient evidence to recommend the routine use of mechanical chest compression devices. There may be specific circumstances when CPR is difficult or impossible where mechanical devices may play an important role in maintaining circulation. There is an urgent need for definitive clinical and cost effectiveness trials to confirm or refute the place of mechanical chest compression devices during resuscitation.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
Divisions:	Faculty of Medicine > Warwick Medical School
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	CPR (First aid), Cardiac arrest -- Treatment, Critical care medicine -- Research, Emergency medicine -- Research, Medical instruments and apparatus
Journal or Publication Title:	Current Opinion in Critical Care
Publisher:	Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
ISSN:	1070-5295
Official Date:	June 2010
Dates:	Date Event June 2010 Published
Volume:	Vol.16
Number:	No.3
Page Range:	pp. 203-210
DOI:	10.1097/MCC.0b013e328339cf59
Status:	Not Peer Reviewed
Access rights to Published version:	Restricted or Subscription Access
Funder:	Great Britain. Dept. of Health (DoH)

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