Controlled trial of automated external defibrillators in the London ambulance service

This controlled trial was performed in London and compared outcomes of patients treated by ambulance staff using either basic life support alone or an automated external defibrillator (AED) as an adjunct to basic life support. Five of the 212 (2%) patients were successfully resuscitated by crews using basic life support alone, compared with seven of 186 (4%) patients treated by crews equipped with the AED. Neurological outcomes in the AED group were better. However, meaningful statistical comparisons are not possible with so few survivors. The AED used (Lifepak 200, PhysioControl Corp) was found to be sensitive and specific, and ambulance staff operated the defibrillator correctly. The use of AEDs in an option to maximize the provision of defibrillators in the community and could readily be incorporated into basic ambulance training.