Timely quality chest compressions and time to defibrillation are the greatest factors affecting survival in cardiac arrest. Initial management of cardiac emergencies includes activation of emergency medical services (EMS), early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), rapid defibrillation, and transfer to an appropriate medical center. Sudden cardiac arrest should be suspected in any collapsed and unresponsive athlete, and an automated external defibrillator (AED) should be used as early as possible, with CPR taking place until it can be applied. Underlying cardiac abnormalities that can predispose some athletes to sudden cardiac arrest include cardiomyopathies, coronary artery anomalies, and channelopathies, as well as genetic disorders such as sickle cell trait, and Marfan syndrome. Formal planning for an efficient response and effective care can help avoid catastrophic outcomes.
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