Brain hypoperfusion post-resuscitation

Abstract

Post-resuscitation brain hypoperfusion is an all too common problem following successful CPR in dogs and cats. The deterioration of neurologic status may occur, regardless of the clinician's ability to restore and maintain heart rate and rhythm, mucous membrane color, capillary refill time, and arterial blood pressure. New insight has been gained into the mechanisms responsible for post-resuscitation brain hypoperfusion, which has improved current treatment regimens and the development of new therapeutic modalities. Proper use of fluids (isotonic or hypertonic saline, oncotic solutions), diuretics, corticosteroids, and sedatives, combined with appropriate CPR techniques, can improve outcome. New drugs and therapeutic techniques offer exciting potential for the future limitation of this problem.