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Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine

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Open Access 01-12-2021 | Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation | Original research

Comparison of different mechanical chest compression devices in the alpine rescue setting: a randomized triple crossover experiment

Authors: Egger Alexander, Tscherny Katharina, Fuhrmann Verena, Grafeneder Jürgen, Niederer Maximilian, Kienbacher Calvin, Schachner Andreas, Schreiber Wolfgang, Herkner Harald, Roth Dominik

Published in: Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Background

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation in mountain environment is challenging. Continuous chest compressions during transport or hoist rescue are almost impossible without mechanical chest compression devices. Current evidence is predominantly based on studies conducted by urbane ambulance service. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the feasibility of continuous mechanical chest compression during alpine terrestrial transport using three different devices.

Methods

Randomized triple crossover prospective study in an alpine environment. Nineteen teams of the Austrian Mountain Rescue Service trained according to current ERC guidelines performed three runs each of a standardised alpine rescue-scenario, using three different devices for mechanical chest compression. Quality of CPR, hands-off-time and displacement of devices were measured.

Results

The primary outcome of performed work (defined as number of chest compressions x compression depth) was 66,062 mm (2832) with Corpuls CPR, 65,877 mm (6163) with Physio-Control LUCAS 3 and 40,177 mm (4396) with Schiller Easy Pulse. The difference both between LUCAS 3 and Easy Pulse (Δ 25,700; 95% confidence interval 21,118 – 30,282) and between Corpuls CPR and Easy Pulse (Δ 25,885; 23,590 – 28,181) was significant. No relevant differences were found regarding secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

Mechanical chest compression devices provide a viable option in the alpine setting. For two out of three devices (Corpuls CPR and LUCAS 3) we found adequate quality of CPR. Those devices also maintained a correct placement of the piston even during challenging terrestrial transport. Adequate hands-off-times and correct placement could be achieved even by less trained personnel.

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Title: Comparison of different mechanical chest compression devices in the alpine rescue setting: a randomized triple crossover experiment
Authors: Egger Alexander
Tscherny Katharina
Fuhrmann Verena
Grafeneder Jürgen
Niederer Maximilian
Kienbacher Calvin
Schachner Andreas
Schreiber Wolfgang
Herkner Harald
Roth Dominik
Publication date: 01-12-2021
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keyword: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Published in: Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1757-7241
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13049-021-00899-x

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Comparison of different mechanical chest compression devices in the alpine rescue setting: a randomized triple crossover experiment

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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