Welsh still using Lucas machines

9:15am Friday 16th March 2007

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'LIFESAVING' heart attack resuscitation equipment is being used in Wales despite being banned from Dorset ambulances, NHS bosses admitted today.

This week the South Western Ambulance Service Trust revealed 14 Lucas systems were removed because of an abandoned trial.

All of the machines, which deliver mechanical chest compressions to cardiac arrest victims, were paid for with around £100,000-worth of charitable donations.

But the Wales Ambulance Service NHS Trust has now revealed it keeps Lucas machines in at least 60 ambulances - and has no plans to remove them.

A spokesman said: "We can confirm that the Welsh Ambulance Service uses them and will continue to use them."

South Western Ambulance Service Trust chief exec Ken Wenman said he was frustrated' at having to remove the machines because initial results from the abandoned trial appeared to show they boosted survival rates.

But today he said the machines were removed to ensure Dorset patients received first class treatment'.

He said: "Our desire to ensure that patients receive a first class service means that we are following guidance by applying to the Central Office for Research Ethics Committee for ethical approval.

"The Lucas machine is used by various hospitals nationally and in many cases replaces or complements the former thumper machine that has been around for at least 40 years.

"Although the Lucas is kitemarked for safety with the CE marking and also has the Federal Drug Administration approval in the United States, the trust's clinical experts have decided to adhere to national guidance recommending that ethical approval is sought before the use of the machine continues.

"As previously reported, we are confident that approval will be given in the not-too-distant future and look forward to reinstating the machines at this time.

"A meeting has been set up between experts for early April and will be hosted at the Resuscitation Council UK in London."

News that the Lucas machines are being used in Wales is a second blow to fundraisers who collected enough cash to buy one in memory of Weymouth man Charlie Powlesland.

John Pearce, who runs Alf's Fish and Chip Shop in Lynch Road, said: "I think it's appalling.

"I've had kiddies come in here and put their sweets money into the collection tin thinking that the money will get one of these machines.

"I can't believe they are using them in Wales and not here. Everybody should remember they have got mums and dads who could need one of these machines. I could need one - you could need one."

Money collected will be kept until a decision on the machines is made.

Despite repeated requests no one from the Central Office for Research Ethics Committee was available to comment on Lucas machines being banned in Dorset but used in Wales.