Estimation of Optimal Pediatric Chest Compression Depth by Using Computed Tomography

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess optimal chest compression depth for infants and children compared with adults, when the simulated compression depth was delivered according to the current guidelines. METHODS: A total of 467 consecutive chest computed tomography scans (93 of infants, 110 of children, and 264 of adults) were reviewed. The anteroposterior (AP) diameter and compressible diameter (CD) for infants and children were measured at the inter-nipple level and at the middle of the lower half of the sternum for adults. Compression ratio (CR) to CD was calculated at simulated one-fourth, onethird, and one-half AP compressions in infants and children and simulated 5-cm, 6-cm compressions in adult. RESULTS: In adults, the CRs to CD at simulated 5-cm, 6-cm compression depth were 41.7±0.16%, 50.0±7.3%, respectively. In children and infants, the CRs to CD at onethird chest compression were, respectively, 55.1±2.4%, 51.8±2.4% and 82.7±3.7%, 77.7±3.6% at one-half chest compression. The CRs to CD of 4-cm compression depth in infants and 5-cm compression depth in children were 74.4±10.9%, 62.5±8.7%, respectively. The CRs to CD for children and infants were significantly higher compared with adults (p<0.001). The CR to CD of 4-cm compression depth in children was similar to that of 6-cm compression depth in adults (50.0±6.9% vs 50.0±7.3%, p=0.985). CONCLUSION: The current pediatric guideline for compression depth was too deep compared with adults. We suggest that one third of the AP chest diameter or approximately 4-cm in children and less than 4-cm in infants is more appropriate.