Meropenem Extraction by Ex Vivo Extracorporeal Life Support Circuits

December 22, 2023 No Comments

The study investigates the impact of ECMO and CRRT circuits on meropenem pharmacokinetics, finding minimal extraction by ECMO components but rapid clearance during CRRT, indicating a need for adjusted meropenem dosing in critically ill patients on these therapies. Meropenem underwent significant degradation/metabolism in physiological conditions, informing clinicians on dosing strategies.

Direct and Continuous Dosing of Propofol can Saturate Ex vivo ECMO Circuit to Improve Propofol Recovery

December 21, 2023 No Comments

This study investigates the adsorption of propofol in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuits, noting that drugs prescribed to ECMO patients often lack optimized dosing strategies due to the circuit’s ability to adsorb drugs. It found that while only 27% of propofol was recovered after a bolus dose, more than 80% was recovered following a continuous infusion, suggesting direct dosing into ECMO circuits could mitigate altered drug exposure due to adsorption.

ECPR for Prolonged Pediatric Cardiac Arrest, an Autcome Without Major Neurological Compromise

December 21, 2023 No Comments

Pediatric in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) occurs in 1-6% of pediatric ICU admissions, with survival rates improving from 9% to 35% over the past 25 years, partly due to the use of ECMO as a rescue strategy. A case is reported of a 4-month-old patient with ventricular and septal defects who underwent surgery, experienced complications leading to a prolonged cardiac arrest, and was successfully treated with ECMO.

Building an Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Program at a High-volume Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Center

December 20, 2023 No Comments

The abstract discusses the establishment of an Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (ECPR) program in a high-volume extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) center, emphasizing patient selection and outcome optimization. Despite lacking a 24/7 ECPR program, the center successfully evaluated and cannulated an in-hospital cardiac arrest patient during resuscitation, leading to survival, while an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patient, considered a poor candidate for ECPR, did not survive despite ECMO center resources.

A Multipurpose Extracorporeal Life Support Circuit: A Concept for Multiorgan Transplant and Circulatory Support Service Healthcare Provider

December 15, 2023 No Comments

We propose the creation of a multipurpose circuit that integrates multiple extracorporeal life support (ECLS) functions to cater to diverse medical needs. This innovative circuit not only offers cost-effectiveness and enhanced safety but also ensures optimal utilization, thereby revolutionizing the realm of life support technologies.

Veno-venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Anesthetic Considerations in Clinical Practice

December 12, 2023 No Comments

After the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple reviews have documented the success of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). Patients who experience hypoxemia but have normal contractility may be switched to veno-venous-ECMO (VV-ECMO).

Short-Term Mortality Among Pediatric Patients With Heart Diseases Undergoing Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

December 11, 2023 No Comments

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation serves as a crucial mechanical circulatory support for pediatric patients with severe heart diseases, but the mortality rate remains high. The objective of this study was to assess the short-term mortality in these patients.

Virtual Reality Simulation as a Training Tool for Perfusionists in Extracorporeal Circulation: Establishing Face and Content Validity

December 8, 2023 No Comments

We conducted a prospective study to assess the face and content validity of a new virtual reality (VR) extracorporeal circulation simulator (ECC) developed for perfusionists to facilitate training and practice.

Veno-venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Anesthetic Considerations in Clinical Practice

December 7, 2023 No Comments

In this review, we present three protocols for anesthesiologists. Firstly, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) aids in cannulation and weaning off inotropes and fluids. Our main objective is to assist in patient selection for the Avalon Elite single catheter, which is inserted into the right internal jugular vein and terminates in the right atrium.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Septic Shock in Adults and Children: A Narrative Review

November 24, 2023 No Comments

For patients who maintain a normal-to-high CI as part of their refractory vasoparalysis, VA ECMO support is justified in children and possibly in patients with a low body mass index. Extracorporeal support for septic shock should be limited to high-volume ECMO centers.