Resuscitation
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To explore factors associated with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among cardiac arrest (CA) survivors treated with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) in relation to gender, and to compare their HRQoL with a general population. ⋯ This extensive population-based study showed that most CA survivors living with an ICD rate their HRQoL as acceptable. In addition, their HRQoL is similar to a general population. Women reported worse HRQoL compared to men. Several factors associated with HRQoL were identified, and might be used when screening patients for health problems and when developing health promoting interventions.
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The number of cardiac arrests (CA) in the group of very elderly patients (≥ 90 years) is expected to increase markedly due to the world`s rapidly ageing population. However, only little is known about long term outcome, CA- and intensive care unit (ICU) characteristics of patient's ≥ 90 years (nonagenarians) suffering from CA. ⋯ 46% of successfully resuscitated nonagenarians survived the ICU stay, the majority with favourable neurological outcome at ICU discharge. Resuscitation and post-CA care, in the highly selected group of very elderly patients (≥ 90 years), seems to be justified.
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Comparative Study
Ultra-low tidal volume ventilation-A novel and effective ventilation strategy during experimental cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
The effects of different ventilation strategies during CPR on patient outcomes and lung physiology are still poorly understood. This study compares positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) to passive oxygenation (CPAP) and a novel ultra-low tidal volume ventilation (ULTVV) regimen in an experimental ventricular fibrillation animal model. ⋯ Ultra-low-volume ventilation during CPR in a porcine model is feasible and may provide lung-protective benefits as well as neurological outcome improvement due to lower inflammation. Our results warrant further studies and might eventually lead to new therapeutic options in the resuscitation setting.
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Editorial Comment
Immediate coronary angiography after cardiac arrest-Friend or foe?