CPR Simulator Developed for Reduced Gravity Environments

A research team at Concordia University has developed a high-fidelity simulator to model blood flow in reduced gravity. This system aims to prepare humans for safe, long-duration space travel. It addresses the challenge of cardiac emergencies in environments far from medical facilities.

The simulator uses a modified mannequin with a three-dimensional (3D) printed cardiovascular system. This system includes a heart, heart valves, artificial vessels, and a fluid-filled loop. The fluid mimics blood flow. Researchers found it reproduced key pressure patterns seen during effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on Earth. It also generated consistent blood flow in both normal and hypogravity conditions.

The simulator revealed measurable differences in the body's response to reduced gravity. Systolic, diastolic, mean arterial pressure, and pulse pressure were all higher in hypogravity compared to Earth gravity. This validated the high-fidelity heart simulator, according to lead author Zoé Lord. The study was published in *npj Microgravity*.

Traditional CPR methods may not be effective in space due to reduced gravity's effect on blood flow. The lack of bracing also poses a challenge. Previous studies focused on external metrics like compression depth and rate. These do not fully assess blood circulation to vital organs. The new system helps investigate the hemodynamics of blood flow, stated Lyes Kadem, a professor at Concordia. He directs the Laboratory of Cardiovascular Fluid Dynamics.

The system was developed and tested in labs at Concordia and on a Canadian government-owned Falcon 20 jet. This jet is designed for space science experiments. Researchers conducted experiments during brief hypogravity moments on two parabolic flights. Sensors tracked pressure changes in real time, particularly in the carotid artery. This allowed researchers to assess compression effectiveness.

Future iterations of the simulator will aim for greater physiological realism. Researchers plan to integrate a spine, rib cage, and a more complex thoracic cavity. They also hope to improve tubing structures and instrumentation. The ultimate goal is to send the mannequin to the International Space Station to measure actual space flight conditions.