The Center for Resuscitation Science

The Center for Resuscitation Science (CRS), established in 2006 and currently led by Emergency Department faculty Benjamin Abella, MD, MPhil, is focused on the science of acute resuscitation from cardiac arrest. The work of the center includes benchtop laboratory investigations, large animal experimental science, clinical studies, and a portfolio of educational activities. The CRS represents a unique intramural collaborative environment, with faculty involvement from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), the School of Nursing, and the Penn School of Veterinary Medicine. Some examples of CRS activities include:

Clinical Studies of Cardiac Arrest and CPR

Investigations involving CPR quality and training of healthcare providers in resuscitation skills have generated a number of original published works, some led by residents and fellows. The CRS has current NIH funding on the topic of CPR training strategies.

Learn more about our clinical studies of cardiac arrest and CPR

Large Animal Studies of Blood Flow During CPR

In collaboration with CHOP critical care physician Robert Berg, MD, CRS faculty have conducted animal studies evaluating blood flow and post-resuscitation injury, as well as the testing of new devices to assess blood flow during CPR.

Learn more about large animal studies of blood flow during CPR

Laboratory Studies of Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

This active benchtop research program focuses on mitochondrial injury with ischemia and reperfusion, as well as novel approaches to address post-resuscitation critical illness including cardiopulmonary bypass techniques.

Learn more about laboratory studies of ischemia-reperfusion injury

CME Educational Programs on Post-Arrest Targeted Temperature Management

The CRS team manages a national two-day CME course for physicians and nurses on the topic of post-arrest care, and specifically the use of temperature management following cardiac arrest. More information on this program can be found at the course homepage.

Learn more about CME educational programs on post-arrest Targeted Temperature Management

Use of Bedside Ultrasound During Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation,

Studies of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) during CPR and critical care are underway, representing a collaboration between the CRS and our Division of Emergency Ultrasound.

Learn more about TEE during resuscitation care

For more information about the CRS and its activities, visit the CRS homepage.