An Improved Technic of External Cardiac Compression in Infants and Young Children

Abstract

WE became aware of the dangers of external cardiac compression in infants and children when 2 cases of hepatic rupture came to our attention.¹ A check through pathological files revealed that about 7 of 10 patients autopsied at the Hospital for Sick Children have received external cardiac compression terminally. A small but significant proportion sustain injuries associated with the procedure. Though mostly minor, trauma is occasionally extensive and in itself could cause death.These considerations prompted an investigation into the cause (or causes) and prevention of liver tear and rupture as the commonest serious complication of external cardiac compression in . . .