Reducing Critical Time to Treatment for MI Patients

An innovative monitor/defibrillator helps first responders maintain "door to balloon” (D2B) time (referring to time from patient's hospital arrival to balloon catheter inflation within the patient's blocked artery) at less than 90 minutes.

The Philips HeartStart MRx enables paramedics to wirelessly transmit vital electrocardiogram (ECG) data on the heart's condition while en route to the hospital, which is critical in the case of patients suffering from a class of heart attacks called ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Once this data is received, caregivers move into action, preparing the catheterization lab before the patient arrives. Heart monitoring is done via the defibrillation pads, and 3- and -5 lead electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is performed through electrodes. The system offers arrhythmia detection, and optional 12-Lead ECG, FAST (Fournier Artifact Suppression Technology) -SpO2 (oxygen saturation), noninvasive blood pressure (NBP) detection, and capnography. Therapies available include proprietary SMART biphasic waveform, a manual mode with shock delivery through defibrillation pads or paddles, synchronized cardioversion, and optional noninvasive pacing.

One of the important features of the HeartStart MRx is Q-CPR, a technology that provides real-time cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) monitoring and feedback for advanced life support trained responders. Q-CPR, developed by Laerdal Medical (Stavanger, Norway) offers medical professionals corrective feedback on the rate and depth of chest compressions, as well as the frequency and quality of ventilations, allowing for modification in their technique when administering CPR. The HeartStart MRx is a product of Royal Philips Electronics (Amsterdam, The Netherlands), and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Dug Administration (FDA).

"HeartStart MRx has reduced D2B times, as previously we would have to obtain the 12-lead ECG inside the hospital and wait for a decision on next treatment steps,” said Daniel Wintrow, captain and paramedic with the Glendale (AZ, USA) Fire Department, which has equipped every fire engine with a HeartStart MRx. "Now, our paramedics are able to send digital quality 12-lead ECG data to the hospital while in transit, which can dramatically cut down on time and help physicians make decisions about appropriate care before arrival.”


Related Links:
Laerdal Medical
Royal Philips Electronics