Update on mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation devices

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this review is to update and discuss the use of mechanical chest compression devices in treatment of cardiac arrest.

RECENT FINDINGS: Three recently published large multicenter randomized trials have not been able to show any improved outcome in adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients when compared with manual chest compressions.

SUMMARY: Mechanical chest compression devices have been developed to better deliver uninterrupted chest compressions of good quality. Prospective large randomized studies have not been able to prove a better outcome compared to manual chest compressions; however, latest guidelines support their use when high-quality manual chest compressions cannot be delivered. Mechanical chest compressions can also be preferred during transportation, in the cath-lab and as a bridge to more invasive support like extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.