Postresuscitation myocardial dysfunction

Postresuscitation myocardial dysfunction is common after prolonged cardiac arrest and can have life-threatening consequences. Experimental data suggest that systolic and diastolic left ventricular function can be adversely effected following successful resuscitation. Such dysfunction can resolve and represents true global myocardial stunning. Identified factors contributing to postresuscitation myocardial dysfunction include prolonged CPR, use of vasoconstricting drugs, and high-energy defibrillation. Potential treatments include dobutamine, KATP channel activators, and 21-aminosteroids. In the author's efforts to improve long-term survival from cardiac arrest, more attention is needed to the postresuscitation period.