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A new method of producing artificial circulation by external sternal compression without thoracotomy was evaluated in 138 episodes of cardiac arrest in 118 patients. Seventy-six arrests occurred outside the operating and recovery room areas. Seven out of every 10 were in asystole; the remainder were in ventricular fibrillation. Cardiac action was restored in 107 (78%) of the 138 cardiac arrests. In 84 (60%) of the 138, the prearrest status of the central nervous system and heart was regained. Twenty-eight (24%) of the 118 patients survived the arrest and inciting disease to leave the hospital.In patients with sudden cardiac arrest, rapid diagnosis followed by immediate artificial ventilation and circulation adequately protected the central nervous system. Cardiotonic drugs, electrocardiograms, ventricular defibrillation, and continued cardiovascular and pulmonary support were employed as needed.

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Measurements were made of the arterial-alveolar carbon dioxide gradient in anesthetized dogs at body temperatures ranging from normal down to 16°C. Pulmonary diffusing capacity was determined by a steady-state carbon monoxide method in anesthetized dogs at normal body temperatures and at 25°C. From the results it is concluded that although diffusing capacity is reduced at low body temperatures, it is still adequate for transfer of both CO2 and O2 because the metabolic requirements for gas exchange are also reduced.