How does the Impedance Threshold Device increase blood flow during CPR?
The Impedance Threshold Device or “ITD” is a device smaller than your fist that attaches to the end of the breathing bag or breathing tube used by emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics. The ITD works to increase the vacuum effect when the chest is released during CPR. We believe that by increasing the vacuum effect, chest release, also called decompression, during CPR brings more oxygen-poor blood back to the heart so that ultimately more oxygen-rich blood is available to be pushed forward. In one study, the ITD produced better circulation and more patients were able to regain their own natural heartbeat. But we don’t know for sure that using the ITD will be beneficial.
