A ventilator reservoir bag can be used as a modified form of 'shock pants' for abdominal compression in infants needing support to provide increased atrial filling. Two representative cases that are presented show that the mean right atrial pressure was successfully elevated by use of this device after a modified Fontan procedure. The use of a ventilator for the purpose of providing external abdominal compression decreases the need for volume loading and inotropic support in these ill patients. Our method for abdominal compression uses materials readily at hand in the intensive care unit. (Padgett CA, Williams WH, Michalik RE, Hatcher CR Jr, Guyton RA. Use of the Ventilator for Circulatory Augmentation by Intermittent External Abdominal Compression. Respir Care 1983;28:1574-1578.
