Mechanisms of cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a patient with right ventricular dilatation - An echocardiographic contribution

The mechanism of cardiopulmonary resuscitation is still debated. Two different theories have been proposed: direct cardiac compression versus intrathoracic pressure. A patient with dilated right cardiac chambers, who underwent a transesophageal echocardiography study during cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is reported. The direct compression mechanism was clearly demonstrated.