PARAMEDIC: mechanical vs. manual chest compressions for out of hospital cardiac arrest

Mechanical compression devices could solve manual resuscitation shortcomings and help maintain its quality. This study compared the mechanical chest compression device LUCAS-2 with manual compressions in out of hospital non traumatic cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

The study randomized 4471 patients (1652 to LUCAS-2 and 2819 to the control group) primary end point was 30 day survival and between secondary end points was return of spontaneous circulation and neurological function at 3 months. 

At 30 days, survival rates were similar in both groups (5,1% vs. 5,8%, OR 0,87, IC de 95% 0,61-1,23) even though neurological outcomes were better with manual compression (3,9 vs. 5,9%, OR 0,65, IC 95% 0,45-0,96).

Conclusion

There was no evidence of survival rate increase with mechanical resuscitation compared to manual compressions during out of hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is not possible to recommend the LUCAS-2 to replace manual compressions for routine use. 

Gavin D. Perkins
2014-11-17

Original title: Mechanical vesus manual chest compressions for Out-of-Arrest: A Cluster randomized trial. The PARAMEDIC Trial.

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