Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 12, 2026

Ultrasonographic Assessment During Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Published on: October 24, 2020
Pre-hospital extra-corporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Ben Singer1,2,3, Joshua C Reynolds4, David J Lockey5
1St Bartholomew's Hospital and Barts Heart Centre, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK. Ben.singer@bartshealth.nhs.uk.
Abstract:
Survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) has remained low despite advances in resuscitation science. Hospital-based extra-corporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) is a novel use of an established technology that provides greater blood flow and oxygen delivery during cardiac arrest than closed chest compressions. Hospital-based ECPR is currently offered to selected OHCA patients in specialized centres. The interval between collapse and restoration of circulation is inversely associated with good clinical outcomes after ECPR. Pre-hospital delivery of ECPR concurrent with conventional resuscitation is one approach to shortening this interval and improving outcomes after OHCA. This article examines the background and rationale for pre-hospital ECPR; summarises the findings of a literature search for published evidence; and considers candidate selection, logistics, and complications for this complex intervention.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation I: Adult
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation III: AED Use
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Hospitals-II
Nurses that work in...

