Simple Technique Could Bypass Cardiac Arrest

Restricting arm blood circulation helps heart in surgery—and attacks, docs hope

By Sophie Goldstein, Newser User

Posted Aug 17, 2007 1:55 AM CDT

(Newser) – A simple technique temporarily restricting the arm's blood supply before heart bypass surgery significantly improves the chances of a full recovery—and could one day be used to prevent cardiac arrest, reports the Guardian. The technique uses cycles of arm compressions with cuffs to remotely restrict blood flow to the heart.

Scientists aren't sure exactly how the technique works. But animal studies suggest that it may be effective in preventing heart damage and even cardiac arrest if used during heart attacks. "This has the potential to be pretty important," said a heart expert. "There is clearly a way to remotely condition the heart to protect against damage."

(Index Stock (http://www.indexstock.com))

A doctor points out one of the three major coronary arteries using a model of the human heart in this 2002 file photo, with the pink tubes depicting a heart after bypass surgery. A new study suggests... (Associated Press)

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Simple Technique Could Bypass Cardiac Arrest

Restricting arm blood circulation helps heart in surgery—and attacks, docs hope

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Simple Technique Could Bypass Cardiac Arrest

Restricting arm blood circulation helps heart in surgery—and attacks, docs hope

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

surgery • heart disease • heart • heart attack • cardiac arrest • bypass • blood flow

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Heart Patients Told Sex Is Safe—but Not Affairs

Risk of dying during sex miniscule for most patients, study finds

When Shoveling Increases, So Do Heart Attacks

Studies show exertion-related cardiac deaths surge during storms

Men at 40 Face 1-in-8 Chance of Cardiac Death

Most causes preventable, many cases have warning signs

Study: Rage Can Be Fatal

Anger shown to cause irregular heartbeats with the potential for cardiac arrest

Heart Assn. Wants You to Learn CPR

Just 15-30% of cardiac arrest victims get lifesaving treatment

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

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More News

What is Newser?