Background Current neonatal resuscitation guidelines recommend chest compressions (CCs) should be delivered to a depth of approximately 1/3 of the anterior–posterior (AP) chest diameter. The aim of the study was to investigate the haemodynamic effects of different CC depths in a neonatal piglet model.

Methods CCs were performed with an automated CC machine with 33%, 40% and 25% AP chest diameter in all piglets in the same order for a duration of 3 min each.

Results Eight newborn piglets (age 1–3 days, weight 1.7–2.3 kg) were included in the study. Carotid blood flow (CBF) and systolic blood pressure were the highest using a CC depth of 40% AP chest diameter (19.3±7.5 mL/min/kg and 58±32 mm Hg).

Conclusion CC depth influences haemodynamic parameters in asphyxiated newborn piglets during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The highest CBF and systolic blood pressure were achieved using a CC depth of 40% AP chest diameter.

Trial registration number PCTE0000148.