Effects of varying chest compression depths on carotid blood flow and blood pressure in asphyxiated piglets

Background Current neonatal resuscitation guidelines recommend chest compressions (CCs) should be delivered to a depth of approximately 1/3 of the anterior-posterior (AP) chest diameter. The aim of the study was to investigate the haemodynamic effects of different CC depths in a neonatal piglet model. Methods CCs were performed with an automated CC machine with 33%, 40% and 25% AP chest diameter in all piglets in the same order for a duration of 3 min each. Results Eight newborn piglets (age 1-3 days, weight 1.7-2.3 kg) were included in the study. Carotid blood flow (CBF) and systolic blood pressure were the highest using a CC depth of 40% AP chest diameter (19.3 +/- 7.5mUmin/kg and 58 +/- 32 mm Hg). Conclusion CC depth influences haemodynamic parameters in asphyxiated newborn piglets during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The highest CBF and systolic blood pressure were achieved using a CC depth of 40% AP chest diameter.

Automated summary

Different depths of chest compressions have varying effects on hemodynamic parameters in neonatal piglet models, with the highest carotid blood flow and systolic blood pressure achieved at 40% of the anterior-posterior chest diameter.