Extensive injury after use of a mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation device

Am J Emerg Med. 2009 Oct;27(8):1017.e1-2. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2008.11.018.

Abstract

We report a case of a 49-year-old woman with a ruptured liver and spleen found at autopsy, which may have been related to the use of a mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) device (AutoPulse, ZOLL Medical Corporation, Chelmsford, Mass). She was admitted because of an out-of-hospital resuscitation, and under the suspicion of a pulmonary embolism, a thrombolytic agent was administered. Despite prolonged continuation of mechanical CPR, she died of persistent asystole. The evidence for improved outcomes after the use of a mechanical CPR device during resuscitation is still scarce. To prevent the unique complications reported here, regular checking of proper position of the chest band during resuscitation is advised.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation / adverse effects*
  • Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation / instrumentation*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease
  • Liver / injuries*
  • Middle Aged
  • Splenic Rupture / etiology*