"The Effect of the Use of an Autotransfusion Device on Hemodynamic Parameters During Resuscitation".

The purpose of the research (pilot study) is to determine the impact of the use of the autotransfusion device on hemodynamic parameters during resuscitation.

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is one of the leading causes of death in Europe.

In order to improve the hemodynamic parameters during resuscitation, device for autotransfusion was developed. Devices are basically a very strong elastic stockings that also block arterial circulation. While "putting on" stockings, blood is being squeezed from the lower extremities (approximately 500 ml of blood for each lower limb). With blood being squeezed from the lower limb into the central circulation the filling of the heart is being improved; thus the device will improve the preload and also cardiac output.

A study done on an animal model showed that during resuscitation using "autotransfusion socks" increases both systolic and diastolic blood pressure during resuscitation, the perfusion of the coronary arteries improves and also the values of the partial pressure of carbon dioxide increases.

Inclusion criteria

• OHCA (Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest)
• age > 18 years
• intubated
• meets criteria for resuscitation

Exclusion criteria

• age < 18 years
• not intubated
• clinical signs for DVT (deep vein thrombosis), PE (pulmonary embolism)
• clinical signs of acute inflammation of limbs, broken limbs etc.
• known oncological patient
• asphyxia
• trauma patients