Fulminant Necrotizing Eosinophilic Myocarditis Successfully Treated With Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and High-Dose Steroids

Abstract Fulminant necrotizing eosinophilic myocarditis (FNEM) is a rare form of EM characterized by biventricular heart failure with hemodynamic deterioration, often requiring inotropes or mechanical circulatory support. Here, we report a case of a 43-year-old healthy woman with FNEM who was admitted with acute heart failure that rapidly progressed to cardiogenic shock and electrical storm, culminating in cardiac arrest. Early diagnosis and prompt administration of corticosteroids in combination with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation allowed complete recovery of biventricular systolic function.

Lactate and Lactate Clearance Are Predictive Factors for Mortality in Patients with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

ABSTRACT Introduction: Findings of inadequate tissue perfusion might be used to predict the risk of mortality. In this study, we evaluated the effects of lactate and lactate clearance on mortality of patients who had undergone extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Methods: Patients younger than 18 years old and who needed venoarterial ECMO support after surgery for congenital heart defects, from July 2010 to January 2019, were retrospectively analyzed. Patients successfully weaned from ECMO constituted Group 1, and patients who could not be weaned from ECMO were in Group 2. Postoperative clinics and follow-ups of the groups including mortality and discharge rates were evaluated. Results: There were 1,844 congenital heart surgeries during the study period, and 55 patients that required ECMO support were included in the study. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding demographics and operative variables. The sixth-, 12th-, and 24th-hour lactate levels in Group 1 were statistically significantly lower than those in Group 2 (P=0.046, P=0.024, and P<0.001, respectively). There were statistically significant differences regarding lactate clearance between the groups at the 24th hour (P=0.009). The cutoff point for lactate level was found as ≥ 2.9, with 74.07% sensitivity and 78.57% specificity (P<0.001). The cutoff point for lactate clearance was determined as 69.44%, with 59.26% sensitivity and 78.57% specificity (P=0.003). Conclusion: Prognostic predictive factors are important to initiate advanced treatment modalities in patients with ECMO support. In this condition, lactate and lactate clearance might be used as a predictive marker.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Uses in Refractory Cardiogenic Shock After Open-Heart Surgery

ABSTRACT Introduction: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is the first-line therapy for temporary mechanical circulatory support allowing cardiac and pulmonary recovery or as a bridge to further therapeutic alternatives. The aim of this study was to report clinical outcomes in adult patients with refractory cardiac failure after open-heart surgery undergoing ECMO in a single center with an ECMO unit in Chile. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed adults with refractory cardiac failure after open-heart surgery who required a venoarterial (VA) ECMO between 2016 and 2021. Results: Of 16 patients with VA ECMO, 60% were men (n=10), 90% had hypertension (n=14), 69% had < 30% of left ventricular ejection fraction (n=11), and the mean European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score was 12 ± 11%. ECMO support with central cannulation accounts for 81% (n=13), and an intra-aortic balloon pump was used in nine patients (56%). The mean time of support was 4.7 ± 2.6 days (1.5 - 12 days). ECMO weaning was achieved in 88% of patients, and in-hospital mortality was 44% (n=7) after discharge. The freedom from all-cause mortality at one year of follow-up of the entire cohort was 38% (n=6). Conclusion: VA ECMO is now a well-known life-saving therapeutic option, but mortality and morbidity remain high. Implementation of an ECMO program with educational training is mandatory in order to find the proper balance between patient benefits, ethical considerations, and public health financial input in South America.

Ações de cuidado e diagnósticos de enfermagem ao paciente com oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea: translação do conhecimento / Acciones de cuidado y diagnósticos de enfermería para pacientes con oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea: traslación del conocimiento / Care actions and nursing diagnoses for patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: knowledge translation

Resumo Objetivo mapear diagnósticos e ações de enfermagem para o cuidado ao paciente adulto com oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, considerando um protocolo e um sistema informatizado de prescrição e a inclusão de novas ações de cuidados, em um processo de translação do conhecimento à prática clínica. Métodos estudo descritivo e exploratório, com mapeamento cruzado entre um protocolo assistencial e sistema informatizado de um hospital universitário, no período de 2014 a 2018. Foram realizados dois encontros com a chefia de enfermagem e membros do time de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea para validar as ações. Resultados diagnósticos mais comuns utilizados nos 45 prontuários dos pacientes com oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea foram: Risco de infecção (100%); Ventilação espontânea prejudicada (93,33%); Síndrome do déficit de autocuidado (93,33%). Conclusão e implicações para a prática o mapeamento incluiu 25 novas ações associadas a 14 diagnósticos de enfermagem no sistema informatizado, visando a disseminação do conhecimento e sua aplicação em cuidados reais a pacientes com oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea.

Resumen Objetivo mapear diagnósticos y acciones de enfermería para el cuidado de pacientes adultos con oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea, considerando un protocolo y un sistema de prescripción computarizado y la inclusión de nuevas acciones de cuidado, en un proceso de traslación del conocimiento a la práctica clínica. Métodos estudio descriptivo, exploratorio, con mapeo cruzado entre un protocolo de atención y un sistema informatizado en un hospital universitario, de 2014 a 2018. Posteriormente se realizaron dos reuniones con la gerente de enfermería y miembros del equipo de oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea para validar acciones. Resultados los diagnósticos más frecuentes utilizados en los 45 prontuarios de pacientes con oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea fueron: Riesgo de infección (100%); Deterioro de la ventilación espontánea (93,33%); Síndrome de déficit de autocuidado (93,33%). Conclusión e implicaciones para la práctica el mapeo incluyó 25 nuevas acciones asociadas a 14 diagnósticos de enfermería en el sistema informatizado, con el objetivo de difundir el conocimiento y su aplicación en la atención real al paciente con oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea.

Abstract Objective to map diagnoses and nursing actions for the care of adult patients with extracorporeal oxygenation membrane, considering a protocol and a computerized prescription system and the inclusion of new care actions, in a process of translating knowledge to clinical practice. Methods descriptive and exploratory study, with cross-mapping between a care protocol and a computerized system of at a university hospital, from 2014 to 2018. Two meetings were held with the nursing manager and members of the extracorporeal oxygenation membrane team to validate the actions. Results most common diagnoses used in the 45 medical records of patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were: Risk of infection (100%); Impaired spontaneous ventilation (93.33%); Self-care deficit syndrome (93.33%). Conclusion and implications for practice The mapping included 25 new actions, associated with 14 nursing diagnoses in the computerized system, aiming to disseminate knowledge and its application in real care for patients with extracorporeal oxygenation membrane.

Pulmonary rehabilitation protocols in urgent lung transplantation patients / 世界急诊医学杂志（英文）

@#BACKGROUND: Prolonged invasive respiratory support and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in patients requiring urgent lung transplantation (ULTx) present significant challenges to clinical practice due to severe underlying diseases and complex conditions. The aim of the study was to report the clinical outcomes of patients who received ULTx and followed the perioperative rehabilitation protocol implemented in a lung transplant center. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted in ULTx patients who required preoperative invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and ECMO between January 2018 and January 2023. Data were retrieved from electronic medical records at our lung transplant center. RESULTS: Fourteen patients (mean age 57.43±10.97 years; 12 males, 2 females) underwent ULTx with bridging ECMO and IMV. The mean body mass index was 23.94±3.33 kg/m², and the mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score was 21.50±3.96. The Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS 2002) scores were ≥3. ULTx was performed after an 8.5-day waiting period (interquartile interval [IQR] 5.0-26.5 d). Following the surgeries, the average lengths of ECMO and IMV were 1.0 (IQR 1.0-2.0) d and 5.0 (IQR 3.0-7.3) d, respectively. The total length of hospital stay was 60.1±30.8 d, with an average intensive care unit stay of 38.3±22.9 d and post-operative hospitalization stay of 45.8±26.1 d. Two patients died within 30 d after ULTx, with a 30-day survival rate of 85.71%. CONCLUSION: Patients receiving ULTx showed an acceptable short-term survival rate, validating the practicality and safety of the treatment protocols implemented in our center.

Lung transplantation after paraquat poisoning in an adolescent: one case report and literature review / 器官移植

Objective To summarize the effect of the timing of lung transplantation and related treatment measures on clinical prognosis of patients with paraquat poisoning. Methods Clinical data of a patient with paraquat poisoning undergoing bilateral lung transplantation were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical manifestations, auxiliary examination, diagnosis and treatment of this patient were summarized and analyzed. Results A 17-year-old adolescent was admitted to hospital due to nausea, vomiting, cough and systemic fatigue after oral intake of 20-30 mL of 25% paraquat. After symptomatic support treatment, the oxygen saturation was not improved, and pulmonary fibrosis continued to progress. Therefore, sequential bilateral lung transplantation was performed under extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). After postoperative rehabilitation and active prevention and treatment for postoperative complications, the patient was discharged at postoperative 50 d. Conclusions The timing of lung transplantation after paraquat poisoning may be selected when the liver and kidney function start to recover. Active and targeted prevention of potential pathogen infection in perioperative period and early rehabilitation training contribute to improving clinical prognosis of lung transplant recipients.

Terapia medico nutricional en pacientes que reciben terapia de oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea: conocimiento en progreso / Medical nutrition therapy in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: knowledge in progress

Resumen El soporte nutricional (SN) en pacientes adultos que reciben terapia de oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea (ECMO, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) es controvertido. Si bien existen guías para el SN en pacientes pediátricos con ECMO, en adultos no se cuenta con estos lineamientos para el uso, tipo, ruta y momento de la terapia nutricional. En pacientes críticamente enfermos es bien sabido que la nutrición enteral (NE) temprana es beneficiosa, no obstante existe la posibilidad de que en pacientes con ECMO la NE temprana condicione complicaciones gastrointestinales. Asimismo, no se han establecido metas calóricas, proteicas y dosis o tipos de micronutrimentos que usar para esta población en específico, siendo un reto para el clínico encargado de brindar el SN. Aunado a esto los pacientes con ECMO son algunos de los más gravemente enfermos en las unidades de cuidados intensivos, donde la desnutrición se asocia con una mayor morbilidad y mortalidad. En cuanto al uso de nutrición parenteral (NP), no se tiene descrito si implica riesgo de falla en el circuito al momento de introducir lípidos al oxigenador. Por lo anterior es imperativa una correcta evaluación e intervención nutricional específica, realizada por expertos en el tema para mejorar el pronóstico y la calidad de vida en esta población, siendo un objetivo primordial en los cuidados de los pacientes adultos que reciben terapia de ECMO.

Abstract Nutritional support in adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy is controversial. Although there are guidelines for the NS (Nutritional support) in pediatric patients with ECMO, in adults these guidelines are not available for the use, type, route and timing of nutritional therapy. In critically ill patients it is well known that early enteral nutrition is beneficial, however there is the possibility that in patients with ECMO early enteral nutrition leads to gastrointestinal complications. Likewise, there have not been established caloric targets, proteins and doses or types of micronutrients to use for this specific population being a challenge for the clinician. In addition, patients with ECMO are some of the most seriously ill in intensive care units, where malnutrition is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Regarding the use of parenteral nutrition (NP) it has not been described if it implies a risk of circuit failure at the time of introducing lipids to the oxygenator. Therefore, a correct evaluation and specific nutritional intervention by experts in the field is imperative to improve the prognosis and quality of life in this population, which is a primary goal in the care of adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygen.

Atención de enfermería en preescolar con atresia pulmonar en oxigenación con membrana extracorpórea: caso exitoso / Nursing Care in Kindergarten with Pulmonary Atresia in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: a Succesful Case / Cuidados de enfermagem em uma criança pré-escolar com atresia pulmonar em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea: caso de sucesso

Introducción. La atresia pulmonar con comunicación interventricular es una cardiopatía compleja que enmarca grandes desafíos en su etapa pre y postquirúrgica; el uso del soporte vital extracorpóreo con membrana de oxigenación restablece la oxigenación y perfusión al organismo para permitir recuperación y complementar estudios. El objetivo de este caso clínico es determinar la atención de enfermería en la fase aguda post quirúrgica. Se expondrá usando el modelo teórico de Dorothea Orem: teorías de déficit de autocuidado y teoría de sistemas. Esta cardiopatía es la forma más severa de la tetralogía de Fallot. Tiene una incidencia del 2% entre todas las cardiopatías. Metodología. Es el caso de una preescolar con atresia pulmonar con comunicación interventricular, se describe los procesos realizados desde el diagnóstico, la intervención percutánea y reparo quirúrgico, así como el manejo de lesión residual en el marco del uso de diferentes tecnologías. Se resalta como elemento clave el uso del soporte con oxigenación con membrana extracorpórea usada como puente a decisión. Resultados. El plan de atención de enfermería en esta fase crítica logró los resultados planteados como la adecuada perfusión y oxigenación, recuperación de la función ventricular, estabilización hemodinámica para ser llevada al reparo de la lesión residual. Este novedoso soporte fue implementado dos veces durante la misma hospitalización y con resultados exitosos. Conclusiones. Caso de difícil manejo con terapias convencionales, pero con aplicación de una atención integral de enfermería; el uso de tecnología y de diversas especialidades permitió un egreso de la menor sin complicaciones. Palabras clave: Atresia Pulmonar; Oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea; Atención de Enfermería; Unidades de Cuidado Intensivo Pediátrico; Cardiopatías Congénitas.

Introduction. The pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect is a complex heart disseas that possess great challenges in pre and post-surgical stages; the use of vital support extracorporeal with membrane oxygenation restores oxygen and perfusion to the body to allow recovery and complement studies. The objetive of this case report is to determinate the nurse attention in the acute post quirulgical phase. It will be presented using Dorothea Orem's theoretical model: theories of self-care deficits and systems theory. This heart disease is the most severe form of tetralogy Fallot. It has an incidence of 2% among all heart diseases. Methodology. This is the case of a kindergarten with pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect, the processes carried out from diagnosis, percutaneous intervention and surgical repair are described, as well as the management of residual injury within the framework of the use of different technologies. The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support used as a decision bridge is highlighted as a key element. Results. The nursing care plan in the critical phase achieved the results proposed as adequate perfusion and oxygenation, recovery of the ventricular function, hemodynamic stabilization to be carried out to repair the residual injury. This newfangled support was implemented twice during the same hospitalization with sucessful result. Conclusions. Case report with struggle managment with conventional therapies but with the application of comprehensive nursing care; the use of technology and the work of various specialities allowed the minor to be discharged without complications. Keywords: Pulmonary Atresia; Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation; Nursing Care; Intensive Care Units, Pediatric; Heart Defects, Congenital.

Introdução. A atresia pulmonar com comunicação interventricular é uma cardiopatia complexa que apresenta grandes desafios em sua fase pré e pós-cirúrgica. O uso de suporte de vida extracorpóreo com membrana de oxigenação restaura a oxigenação e a perfusão do corpo para permitir a recuperação e complementar os estudos. O objetivo deste caso clínico é determinar os cuidados de enfermagem na fase aguda pós-cirúrgica. Será apresentado utilizando o modelo teórico de Dorothea Orem: teorias do déficit de autocuidado e teoria de sistemas. Esta doença cardíaca é a forma mais grave de tetralogia de Fallot. Tem uma incidência de 2% entre todas as doenças cardíacas. Metodologia. É o caso de uma criança em idade pré-escolar com atresia pulmonar com comunicação interventricular, são descritos os processos realizados desde o diagnóstico, intervenção percutânea e reparação cirúrgica, bem como o manejo da lesão residual no âmbito da utilização de diferentes tecnologias. Destaca-se, como elemento-chave, a utilização de suporte com oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea como ponte para a decisão. Resultados. O plano de cuidados de enfermagem nesta fase crítica alcançou os resultados propostos como perfusão e oxigenação adequadas, recuperação da função ventricular, estabilização hemodinâmica a ser realizada para o reparo da lesão residual. Este novo suporte foi implementado duas vezes durante a mesma hospitalização e com resultados bem-sucedidos. Conclusões. Caso de difícil manejo com terapias convencionais, mas com aplicação de cuidados integrais de enfermagem, o uso da tecnologia e de diversas especialidades permitiu que a criança recebesse alta sem complicações. Palavras-chave: Atresia Pulmonar; Oxigenação por Membrana Extracorpórea; Cuidados de Enfermagem; Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica; Cardiopatias Congênitas.

Use of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Cerebral Oximetry in a Stage 1 Norwood Repair for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

The role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and its indications in stage I Norwood palliation are controversial. The decision to initiate ECMO and its timing remains difficult with no definitive cut?off points or evidence?based guidelines. It varies on a case?to?case basis. We report a case where the use of ECMO was beneficial after stage I Norwood palliation with severe ventricular dysfunction. The systemic?to?pulmonary artery shunt was kept open to balance the systemic and pulmonary circulations. Cerebral oximetry can be useful as an additional monitoring modality to guide management, monitor cerebral perfusion, and help detect cerebral steal.

Advances in Extracorporeal Support Technologies in Critically Ill Children

The field of pediatric heart failure is evolving, and the patient population is growing as survival after complex congenital heart surgeries is improving. Mechanical circulatory support and extracorporeal respiratory support in critically ill children has progressed to a mainstay rescue modality in pediatric intensive care medicine. The need for mechanical circulatory support is growing, since the number of organ donors does not meet the necessity. This article aims to review the current state of available mechanical circulatory and respiratory support systems in acute care pediatrics, with an emphasis on the literature discussing the challenges associated with these complex support modalities

Multiparameters Associated to Successful Weaning from VA ECMO in Adult Patients with Cardiogenic Shock or Cardiac Arrest: Systematic Review and Meta?Analysis

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) is a form of temporary mechanical circulatory support and simultaneous extracorporeal gas exchange for acute cardiorespiratory failure, including refractory cardiogenic shock (CS) and cardiac arrest (CA). Few studies have assessed predictors of successful weaning (SW) from VA ECMO. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify a multiparameter strategy associated with SW from VA ECMO. PubMed and the Cochrane Library and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched. Studies reporting adult patients with CS or CA treated with VA ECMO published from the year 2000 onwards were included. Primary outcomes were hemodynamic, laboratory, and echocardiography parameters associated with a VA ECMO SW. A total of 11 studies (n=653) were included in this review. Pooled VA ECMO SW was 45% (95%CI: 39�%, I2 7%) and in?hospital mortality rate was 46.6% (95%CI: 33�%; I2 36%). In the SW group, pulse pressure [MD 12.7 (95%CI: 7.3�) I2 = 0%] and mean blood pressure [MD 20.15 (95%CI: 13.8�.4 I2 = 0) were higher. They also had lower values of creatinine [MD �59 (95%CI: �9 to �2) I2 = 7%], lactate [MD �1 (95%CI: �4 to �7) I2 = 89%], and creatine kinase [�79.5 (95%CI: �87 to �1) I2 = 38%]. And higher left and right ventricular ejection fraction, MD 17.9% (95%CI: �2�.2) I2 = 91%, and MD 15.9% (95%CI 11.9�) I2 = 0%, respectively. Different hemodynamic, laboratory, and echocardiographic parameters were associated with successful device removal. This systematic review demonstrated the relationship of multiparametric assessment on VA ECMO SW.

The Use of Intraoperative Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Lung Transplantation: Initial Institutional Experience

ABSTRACT Introduction: Lung transplantation is the final treatment option for end-stage lung disease, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is increasingly being used during lung transplantation. Objective: The present study aimed to review our initial experience with patients who underwent lung transplantation with or without ECMO since the implementation of the lung transplantation program at our center. Methods: Data were prospectively collected on all patients between December 2016 and December 2018. Patients undergoing ECMO as a bridge to lung transplantation were excluded. Results: A total of 48 lung transplants were performed, and ECMO was used in 29 (60.4%) cases. Twenty (83%) patients were female. The median age was 48.5 (range, 14-64) years. The most common indications were idiopathic interstitial pneumonia in 9 (31%) patients, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in 7 (24.1%) patients, and bronchiectasis in 6 (20.7%) patients. Sequential bilateral lung transplantation was performed in all patients. The 30-day mortality was 20.6% (6/29) for patients with ECMO, however, it was 10.5 (2/19) for patients without ECMO (P=0.433). The median length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) was 5 (range, 2-25) days. The ECMO weaning rate was 82.8% (24/29). One-year survival was 62.1% with ECMO versus 78.9% without ECMO, and the 3-year survival was 54.1% versus 65.8%, respectively (P=0.317). Conclusions: ECMO is indicated for more severe patients who underwent lung transplantation. The use of ECMO provides adjuvant support during surgery and the mortality rate is acceptable. Survival is also as similar as non-ECMO patients. ECMO is appropriate for critically ill patients.

Use of Impella Devices for Acute Cardiogenic Shock in the Perioperative Period of Cardiac Surgery

ABSTRACT Introduction: The Impella ventricular support system is a device that can be inserted percutaneously or directly across the aortic valve to unload the left ventricle. The purpose of this study is to determine the role of Impella devices in patients with acute cardiogenic shock in the perioperative period of cardiac surgery. Methods: A retrospective single-surgeon review of 11 consecutive patients who underwent placement of Impella devices in the perioperative period of cardiac surgery was performed. Patient records were evaluated for demographics, indications for placement, and postoperative outcomes. Results: Impella devices were placed for refractory cardiogenic shock preoperatively in 6 patients, intraoperatively in 4 patients, and postoperatively as a rescue in 1 patient. Seven patients received Impella CP, 1 Impella RP, 1 Impella CP and RP, and 2 Impella 5.0. Additionally, 3 patients required preoperative venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO), and 1 patient required intraoperative venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). All Impella devices were removed 1 to 28 days after implantation. Length of stay in the intensive care unit stay ranged from 2 to 53 days (average 23.9±14.6). The 30-day and 1-year mortality were 0%. Ten of 11 patients were alive at 2 years. Also, 1 patient died 18 months after surgery from complications of coronavirus disease (Covid-19). Device-related complications included varying degrees> of hemolysis in 8 patients (73%) and device malfunction in 1 patient (9%). Conclusions: The Impella ventricular support system can be combined with other mechanical support devices for additional hemodynamic support. All patients demonstrated myocardial recovery with no deaths in the perioperative period and in 1-year of follow-up. Larger studies are necessary to validate these findings.

Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation as A Bridge to Surgery in Post-Myocardial Infarction Ventricular Septal Defect with Cardiogenic Shock: Case Report

ABSTRACT We describe a 60-year-old woman with post-myocardial infarction (MI) ventricular septal defect (VSD) and cardiogenic shock who was successfully stabilized with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) as a bridge therapy for the surgical closure of her VSD. This case highlights the role of VA-ECMO in the management of post-MI VSD to improve the results of surgical repair and patient survival.

Knowledge regarding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management among Brazilian pediatric intensivists: a cross-sectional survey / Conhecimento do manejo da oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea de intensivistas pediátricos brasileiros: um inquérito transversal

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess Brazilian pediatric intensivists' general knowledge of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including evidence for its use, the national funding model, indications, and complications. Methods: This was a multicenter cross-sectional survey including 45 Brazilian pediatric intensive care units. A convenience sample of 654 intensivists was surveyed regarding their knowledge on managing patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, its indications, complications, funding, and literature evidence. Results: The survey addressed questions regarding the knowledge and experience of pediatric intensivists with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including two clinical cases and 6 optional questions about the management of patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Of the 45 invited centers, 42 (91%) participated in the study, and 412 of 654 (63%) pediatric intensivists responded to the survey. Most pediatric intensive care units were from the Southeast region of Brazil (59.5%), and private/for-profit hospitals represented 28.6% of the participating centers. The average age of respondents was 41.4 (standard deviation 9.1) years, and the majority (77%) were women. Only 12.4% of respondents had taken an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation course. Only 19% of surveyed hospitals have an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation program, and only 27% of intensivists reported having already managed patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Specific extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management questions were responded to by only 64 physicians (15.5%), who had a fair/good correct response rate (median 63.4%; range 32.8% to 91.9%). Conclusion: Most Brazilian pediatric intensivists demonstrated limited knowledge regarding extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, including its indications and complications. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is not yet widely available in Brazil, with few intensivists prepared to manage patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and even fewer intensivists recognizing when to refer patients to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation centers.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os conhecimentos gerais dos intensivistas pediátricos brasileiros sobre oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, incluindo evidências de uso, modelo de custeio nacional, indicações e complicações. Métodos: Este estudo foi um inquérito transversal multicêntrico que incluiu 45 unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica brasileiras. Realizou-se inquérito de conveniência com 654 intensivistas quanto aos seus conhecimentos sobre manejo de pacientes em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, suas indicações, complicações, custeio e evidências bibliográficas. Resultados: O inquérito abordou questões relativas aos conhecimentos e à experiência dos intensivistas pediátricos sobre oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, incluindo dois casos clínicos e seis questões facultativas sobre o manejo de pacientes em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea. Dos 45 centros convidados, 42 (91%) participaram do estudo, e 412 (63%) dos 654 intensivistas pediátricos responderam ao inquérito. A maioria das unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica eram da Região Sudeste do Brasil (59,5%), e os hospitais privados com fins lucrativos representavam 28,6% dos centros participantes. A média de idade dos respondentes era de 41,4 (desvio-padrão de 9,1) anos, e a maioria (77%) era mulher. Apenas 12,4% dos respondentes tinham formação em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea. Dos hospitais pesquisados, apenas 19% tinham um programa de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, e apenas 27% dos intensivistas declararam já ter manejado pacientes em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea. Apenas 64 médicos (15,5%) responderam a questões específicas sobre o manejo de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea (mediana 63,4%; oscilando entre 32,8% e 91,9%). Conclusão: A maioria dos intensivistas pediátricos brasileiros demonstrou conhecimentos limitados de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea, incluindo suas indicações e complicações. A oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea ainda não está amplamente disponível no Brasil, com poucos intensivistas preparados para o manejo de pacientes em oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea e ainda menos intensivistas capazes de reconhecer quando devem encaminhar pacientes para centros de oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea.

Analysis of 24-hour Death Risk Factors in Circulatory Failure Patients Treated with Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

ABSTRACT Objective: To explore the factors affecting short-term prognosis of circulatory failure patients undergoing venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) treatment. Methods: A total of 136 patients undergoing VA-ECMO were enrolled in this study and subsequently divided into the death group (n=35) and the survival group (n=101) based on whether death occurred during hospitalisation. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) running time, length of intensive care unit stay, length of hospital stay, costs, and ECMO complications were then compared between the two groups. Results: The average age of all patients undergoing ECMO was 47.64±16.78 years (53.2±16.20 years in the death group and 45.713±16.62 years in the survival group) (P=0.022). Patients in the survival group exhibited a clear downward trend in lactic acid value following ECMO treatment compared to those in the death group. Total hospitalisation stay was longer in the survival group (35 days) than in the death group (15.5 days) (P<0.001). In the analysis of ECMO complications, the incidence of neurological complications, renal failure, limb complications, and infection were higher in the death group than in the survival group (P<0.05 for all). Specifically, as a risk factor for patient survival and discharge, the occurrence of infection will lead to increased hospitalisation stays and costs (P<0.05 for both). Conclusion: Complications such as kidney failure and infection are associated with in-hospital death, and ECMO-related complications should be actively prevented to improve the survival rate of VA-ECMO treatment.

Myocardial Protection in Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Del Nido versus Blood Cardioplegia

ABSTRACT Introduction: Our study aimed to examine the impacts of blood cardioplegia (BC) and del Nido cardioplegia (DNC) solutions - which we used in isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) - on early mortality and major adverse events (MAE). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 329 consecutive patients who underwent CABG in our clinic between January 2016 and January 2020. Myocardial infarction, reoperation, cardiac tamponade, stroke, renal failure, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation requirement, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation were defined as MAE. The group in which DNC was used was Group D (181 [55%] patients), and the group in which BC was used was Group B (141 [45%] patients). Results: No statistically significant difference was determined between the groups regarding age, weight, body surface area, gender, or European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation score (P=0.615, P=0.560, P=0.934, P=0.365, P=0.955, respectively). Although there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of aortic cross-clamping time (P=0.712), cardiopulmonary bypass duration was longer in Group B (P=0.001). Even though the incidence of stroke was higher in Group B (P=0.030), no statistically significant difference was observed between the groups regarding total incidence of MAE, mortality, mechanical ventilation time, length of stay in the intensive care unit, or length of hospital stay (P=0.153, P=0.130, P=0.689, P=0.710, P=0.613, respectively). Conclusion: We found no significant difference in MAE, mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit stay, or hospital stay between the DNC and BC groups. We believe that both solutions can be used safely for cardiac protection in the adult patient population.

Research progress in complications and their prevention and treatment strategies during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support for severe trauma / 中华创伤杂志

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a technique in which breathing and circulation are supported extracorporeally. Severe trauma may induce cardiopulmonary failure, for which ECMO can play an adjunctive role in the salvage treatment of circulatory and respiratory failure when conventional treatments are ineffective. Bypass with ECMO can rapidly improve the state such as circulatory failure and hypoxemia in critically ill patients in short term and can partially or fully replace their cardiopulmonary function in long term, winning valuable time for normal recovery of cardiopulmonary function. Because of the physical state of severe trauma patients and the ECMO equipment, there are still various complications clinically. Trauma patients show high risk of bleeding, vulnerability to wound infection and probability of combined organ injury and dysfunction, so more comprehensive measures for the prevention and treatment of complications during the use of ECMO therapy are required. The authors review the research progress in complications and corresponding prevention and treatment strategies during ECMO support for severe trauma, aiming to provide a reference to prevent and treat these complications.

Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for a Stanford type A aortic dissection patient combined with postoperative respiratory failure and COVID-19: A case report / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#During the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, there has been controversy over whether emergency surgical management should be performed or not in the patients with COVID-19. Stanford type A aortic dissection is a very urgent life-threatening disease, and guidelines recommend surgical treatment for patients with type A aortic dissection in the first instance. However, intraoperative extracorporeal circulation can be fatal to patients recovering from COVID-19. During the pandemic, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has played an important role in supporting COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory failure. This article reports a successful V-V ECMO treatment for a Stanford type A aortic dissection patient, who suffered respiratory failure caused by COVID-19 after emergency surgery.

Analysis of the risk factors for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use after surgical repair in patients with anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery combined with severe left ventricular dysfunction / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Objective    To analyze the early outcomes of anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction after surgical repair, and to explore the predictors for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support for these patients. Methods    The clinical data of ALCAPA patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction<40%) who underwent coronary artery reimplantation in the pediatric center of our hospital from 2013 to 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into an ECMO group and a non-ECMO group. Clinical data of the two groups were compared and analyzed. Results    A total of 64 ALCAPA patients were included. There were 7 patients in the ECMO group, including 4 males and 3 females aged 6.58±1.84 months. There were 57 pateints in the non-ECMO group, including 30 males and 27 females aged 4.34±2.56 months. The mortality of the patients was 6.25% (4/64), including 2 patients in the ECMO group, and 2 in the non-ECMO group. The postoperative complications rate was significantly higher in the ECMO group than that in the non-ECMO group (P=0.041). There were statistical differences in the cardiopulmonary bypass time [254 (153, 417) min vs. 106 (51, 192) min, P=0.013], aortic cross-clamping (ACC) time (89.57±13.66 min vs. 61.58± 19.57 min, P=0.039), and preoperative left ventricular end-diastolic diameter/body surface area (132.32±14.71 mm/m2 vs. 108.00±29.64 mm/m2, P=0.040) between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that ACC time was an independent risk factor for postoperative ECMO support (P=0.005). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the area under the ROC curve was 0.757, the sensitivity was 85.70%, specificity was 66.70%, with the cut-off value of 66 min. Conclusion    ACC time is an independent risk factor for postoperative ECMO support. Patients with an ACC time>66 min have a significantly higher risk for ECMO support after the surgery.