The optimal chest compression point on sternum based on chest-computed tomography: A retrospective study

Abstract

Background: High-quality chest compression is crucial for cardiac arrest patients. However, only few studies are focusing on the optimal compression point. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the optimal compression point based on chest-computed tomography. Methods: We retrospectively selected 166 adult health subjects between January 2018 and May 2018 in a university-affiliated hospital. Results: The median length of sternum was 14.9 cm. The median length from the inter-nipple line to the distal end of sternum was 1.0 cm. The median length from the point at which the maximal left ventricular diameter projected onto the sternum to the distal end of the sternum was −1.4 (–2.2 to 0.0) cm. The median value of the length from the inter-nipple line to the distal end of sternum plus the length from the point at which the maximal left ventricular diameter projected onto the sternum to the distal end of the sternum was 2.0 (1.0–3.1) cm. Conclusion: One size does not fit all. The point recommended by the current guideline may not appropriate for Chinese person. Further studies are required focusing on individual chest compression during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.