PhD defence M. (Marijn) Albrecht

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation: 

Pediatric cardiac arrest is rare but often fatal. Survivors face lifelong neurological and psychological challenges. This thesis explores how to move beyond hope by building data-driven, collaborative prognostication frameworks. It is structured in three parts: survival trends and outcomes, post-resuscitation diagnostics, and predictive modeling.

Part I shows that shockable rhythms are strongly associated with favorable long-term neurological outcomes. AED use and survival have increased over the past 19 years. Part II reveals that the etiology of cardiac arrest often remains unknown, especially in infants, and that essential diagnostics like genetic testing and autopsy are frequently omitted. Part III develops predictive models using clinical data, EEG, and MRI, and introduces the national PROGNOSE registry for standardized follow-up.

The thesis reframes prognostication as a dynamic, multidisciplinary process that informs care, communication, and recovery. Through collaboration, individualization, and innovation, we can offer children and families a realistic path toward meaningful outcomes after cardiac arrest.