Cardiac massage

Cardiac Massage is a life-saving procedure that is often used in emergency situations to manually stimulate the heart when it has stopped beating. This procedure is also known as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and is a critical skill in emergency medicine.

History

The concept of cardiac massage dates back to the early 20th century. The first successful use of external cardiac massage was reported by Dr. Frederic E. Mohr and Dr. James Jude in 1960.

Procedure

The procedure of cardiac massage involves the application of pressure to the chest wall in a rhythmic fashion, in order to pump blood out of the heart and into the circulation. The technique requires the rescuer to place their hands one on top of the other in the middle of the victim's chest and then to press down firmly and quickly. This action compresses the heart between the sternum and the spine, forcing blood out of the heart and into the circulatory system.

Indications

Cardiac massage is indicated in any situation where the heart has stopped beating and the patient is unresponsive. This includes conditions such as cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and arrhythmias.

Complications

While cardiac massage is a life-saving procedure, it can also cause complications. These include rib fractures, damage to internal organs, and pulmonary embolism. Despite these potential complications, the benefits of cardiac massage in a life-threatening situation far outweigh the risks.

Training

Training in cardiac massage is widely available and is often included in first aid and CPR courses. These courses are offered by various organizations, including the American Heart Association and the Red Cross.

See Also

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Emergency medicine
• Cardiac arrest
• Myocardial infarction
• Arrhythmias