The value of echocardiography during cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Objective: To assess the contribution of echocardiography performed during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the critically ill subject. Method: A retrospective review of all patients undergoing CPR and having an echocardiogram (transthoracic or transoesophageal) during resuscitation in a general intensive care unit at a medium-sized tertiary referral hospital was undertaken. Results: Eleven such patients were identified over a 48-month study period. In 4 patients, major changes were initiated as a result of the echocardiographic findings with 2 long-term survivors (14%). In another 5 patients the decision not to continue resuscitation was assisted by the findings. Conclusion: Echocardiography performed during CPR assists greatly in decision-making and can contribute significantly to survival.0