What is considered the most effective technique for rewarming severely hypothermic cardiac arrest victims?

The most effective technique for rewarming severely hypothermic cardiac arrest victims is extracorporeal circulation. This method involves the use of specialized devices that circulate and oxygenate the blood outside the body. It is particularly beneficial for patients with severe hypothermia because it allows for rapid and controlled rewarming of the blood, which in turn helps to rewarm the internal organs and restore normal physiological function. By directly warming the blood as it is circulated, this technique effectively addresses the core hypothermia that is critical in cardiac arrest cases.

In comparison, other methods such as warm blankets and hot fluids, while they can assist in mild hypothermia cases, are generally insufficient for the extreme circumstances presented in severe hypothermia. Warm blankets may provide some comfort and help retain body heat but do not significantly increase core temperature. Hot fluids can help to some extent but can also cause complications such as peripheral vasodilation, which might worsen the situation by pulling warm blood away from the core. Abrasive skin rubs are not only ineffective but can cause tissue injury without substantially improving rewarming. Extracorporeal circulation remains the gold standard for managing severe hypothermia during cardiac arrest due to its efficacy in significantly increasing core body temperature and reversing cardiac