A Novel Anatomic Landmark to Target the Left Ventricle During Chest Compressions in Cardiac Arrest

Background Resuscitation guidelines recommend that chest compressions be performed over the lower sternum. Current computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging studies suggest that the current area of compression does not target the left ventricle (LV). Using transthoracic ultrasound, we sought to identify potential anatomic landmarks that would result in compressions over the LV in the majority of our study participants. Methodology We recruited 64 healthy men and women (over the age of 40) from the Simulated Patient Program at the University of Saskatchewan. Using ultrasound, we identified the LV and the associated surface anatomy in terms of intercostal space (ICS) and parasternal or mid-clavicular lines. We also collected biometric data including body mass index, chest circumference, and the corresponding inter-nipple line ICS. Results The LV was located along the left sternal border in 62 (96.9%) participants. The most frequent LV location was along the left sternal border at the sixth ICS in 26 (40.6%) participants, with 13 (20.3%) at the fifth and 10 (15.6%) participants at the seventh ICS. In two (3.1%) participants, the LV was found along the mid-clavicular zone at the fifth ICS. The area from the fifth to seventh ICS on the left sternal border, typically covered by an adult palm centered at the sixth ICS, overlaid 49 of 64 (76.6%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 64.3-86.2%) identified LV locations. By comparison, centering the heel of the palm over the inter-nipple line at the left sternal border would cover the LV in 46 (71.9%, 95% CI: 59.2-82.4%) participants. Conclusions A novel area of compression over the left sternal border at the inter-nipple line would result in compressions over the LV in nearly three-quarters of our study participants. Future research should investigate whether this proposed area of compression is applicable to a broader population including those with cardiac and thoracic disease.