METHODS, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS FOR HEMODYNAMIC AUGMENTATION OF CARDIAC MASSAGE

摘要

Methods, apparatus and systems for compression or counter-pulsation of the limbs and/or abdomen of a patient to augment venous return during cardiac resuscitation. In some embodiments, compression member(s) (14, 16, 18) are placed on limb(s) and/or the abdomen of the patient and are used to compress and decompress the limb(s) and/or abdomen to augment the flow of venous return blood to the patient's heart during resuscitation. The compression member(s) may be in communication with a controller (12) and the controller may be programmed to cause the compression members to alternately compress and decompress the limb(s) and/or the abdomen at desired times, intervals and/or compressive forces. Optionally, a cardiac compression sensor (22) may also be connected to the controller and the desired times or intervals for compression/decompression of the limb(s) and /or the abdomen may be linked to the rate and/or timing of cardiac compressions. One embodiment incorporates a device for minimally invasive direct cardiac compression, such device having a cardiac compression sensor linked to the controller of the system so that compression/decompression of the limb(s) and/or the abdomen may be effected in conjunction with minimally invasive direct cardiac massage.