Cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation in neonatal foals

Cardiovascular or pulmonary system failure in neonatal foals requires rapid recognition and initiation of cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation (CPCR). Foals may require resuscitation immediately after birth or after arrest from progression of a disease process such as severe sepsis or septic shock. Initial treatment is aimed at establishing an airway and providing ventilation. Circulation is provided by closed-chest compressions. Circulatory access is important to provide intravenous fluid and pharmacologic therapy for cardiovascular support. Ventricular fibrillation and pulseless ventricular tachycardia are arrhythmias not commonly recognized with arrest in foals, whereas asystole and cardiovascular collapse are frequently encountered. Training of personnel, preparation of supplies, and organization during CPCR is essential to a successful outcome. Most of the information used for CPCR in neonatal foals is derived from human medical research and clinical medicine. As new advances are made in human neonatal and pediatric CPCR, many of these treatments and techniques can be applied to foals. This article reviews currently available CPCR guidelines in foals and highlights new perspectives in human medicine that may be applicable to foals.