Intracardiac injections during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. A low-risk procedure

Abstract

Patients (53) were observed prospectively for the development of complications resulting from 147 intracardiac injections (ICI) [of medications or placement of pacemaker electrode] received during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Although pericardial effusion was noted in 6 of 17 echocardiograms and a hemopericardium found in 8 of 28 autopsies, cardiac tamponade was not observed. A pneumothorax developed in 1 patient. None of the autopsies disclosed coronary artery or ventricular lacerations. Percutaneous puncture of the heart during CPR seldom results in serious complications. When other sites are not readily available, ICI are safe and valid for the administration of emergency medication.