The Effect of Chest Compression Location and Occlusion of the Aorta in a Traumatic Arrest Model

Recent evidence demonstrates that closed chest compressions directly over the left ventricle (LV) in a traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) model improve hemodynamics and return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) when compared with traditional compressions. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) also improves hemodynamics and controls hemorrhage in TCA. We hypothesized that chest compressions located over the LV would result in improved hemodynamics and ROSC in a swine model of TCA using REBOA.

Transthoracic echo was used to mark the location of the aortic root (traditional location) and the center of the LV on animals (n = 26), which were randomized to receive chest compressions in one of the two locations. After hemorrhage, ventricular fibrillation was induced to simulate TCA. After a period of 10 min of ventricular fibrillation, basic life support (BLS) with mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated and performed for 10 min followed by advanced life support for an additional 10 min. REBOA balloons were inflated at 6 min into BLS. Hemodynamic variables were averaged during the final 2 min of the BLS and advanced life support periods. Survival was compared between this REBOA cohort and a control group without REBOA (no-REBOA cohort) (n = 26).

There was no significant difference in ROSC between the two REBOA groups (P = 0.24). Survival was higher with REBOA group versus no-REBOA group (P = 0.02).

There was no difference in ROSC between LV and traditional compressions when REBOA was used in this swine model of TCA. REBOA conferred a survival benefit regardless of compression location.