Preclinical studies of abdominal counterpulsation in CPR.

Abdominal counterpulsation added to standard cardiopulmonary resuscitation improves blood flow in animal models when compared to chest compressions alone. Similar effects can be demonstrated in analog and digital computer models of the circulation. The technique generates both central aortic and central venous pressure pulses, and successful application of the method depends on maximizing the former and minimizing the latter. Proper technique is important in order to generate the largest possible arteriovenous pressure difference.