A Performance Analysis of the Army External Cardiac Compressor (Stroke-Limited Model)

摘要

An ECC has been developed which uses a fluid amplifer for its power and logic. The machine is stroke-limited and cycles upon completion of a stroke, without pause. The device may also have its pulses synchronized with an EKG signal through the use of an appropriate cardiac programmer. The device has only two controls: stroke and frequency. The pulse characteristics as defined by the ratio of systolic to total period are physiologically acceptable according to the literature. These pulse characteristics were obtained using a spring having a spring constant of 33 1/3 lb/in. as a physical model of the sternum. It yet remains for medical evaluations to establish the effectiveness of this device in resuscitation. (Author)