International Perfusion Association

Category: ECMO

Top 5 Reasons to Obtain an IBBM Certification in Blood Management and ECMO

In the competitive healthcare industry, certification in blood management or ECMO through the AmSECT International Board of Blood Management (IBBM) can significantly elevate your career. Certification demonstrates leadership, earns respect from peers, sharpens your skills, enhances career opportunities, and boosts earning potential. Specialized certifications such as PBMT, PBMS, CES-A, and CES-P mark you as a committed expert in patient care.

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ECMO 2024

Risk Factors for Elective and Emergency Oxygenator Exchanges During Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

This observational cohort study explores the risk factors associated with elective and emergency oxygenator exchanges during veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO). Analyzing 45 patients, the study found that higher levels of partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), transmembrane pressure difference (ΔP), and hemoglobin (Hb) were significant predictors for an oxygenator exchange, while lower lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was linked to the risk of an emergency exchange. These findings highlight the need for careful monitoring and timely decision-making in ECMO management to minimize complications.

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Clinician Prediction of Survival vs Calculated Prediction Scores in Patients Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

This study compares the accuracy of clinician predictions versus established prognostic scores in determining survival to hospital discharge for patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Conducted from January 2020 to November 2021, the study involved interviews with nurses, perfusionists, and physicians within the first 24 hours of ECMO initiation. The results showed that clinicians, particularly perfusionists and physicians, had better prediction accuracy compared to the RESP and SAVE scores. The findings suggest the potential for developing more accurate prediction tools to guide ECMO eligibility.

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ECMO Safety

Sterility and Oxygenator Function in Pre-Primed Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Prospective Clinical Study

This study explores the sterility and function of pre-primed extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) circuits in a clinical setting. Conducted at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, the study assessed 107 ECMO circuits between 2019 and 2021, analyzing sterility through culture tests and oxygenator function through parameters like sweep gas flow and FiO2. Results indicated minimal bacterial growth and no significant impact of wet priming on oxygenator function, suggesting pre-priming is safe and effective for rapid ECMO initiation.

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ECMO Pressure Monitoring

Quantifying Potential Fluid Transfused Through Pressure Monitoring and Circuit Flushes in Pediatric ECMO Patients

This study investigates the fluid volume transfused to pediatric ECMO patients via pressure monitoring circuits, an area currently lacking published data or guidelines. Using in vitro experiments with Edwards True Wave transducers and pressure bags, the study measured fluid volumes from passive and active flushing methods. Results showed that maintaining patency with a pressurized IV bag can transfuse approximately 319.6 mL daily, close to a neonate’s total blood volume. Automated syringe pumps, however, significantly reduce this volume to 24 mL per day. The findings suggest the need for further research to establish best practices.

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ECMO Survival Rates

Clinician Prediction of Survival vs Calculated Prediction Scores in Patients Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

This study compared clinician predictions of survival to hospital discharge versus established ECMO survival prediction scores (RESP and SAVE). Conducted from January 2020 to November 2021, it involved interviews with nurses, perfusionists, and physicians within the first 24 hours of ECMO initiation. Results showed that clinicians, especially perfusionists and physicians, often had more accurate survival predictions than the RESP and SAVE scores. The study highlights the need for improved prediction tools.

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ECMO Neuro Monitoring

Multimodal Neurologic Monitoring in Patients Undergoing Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

This study investigates the safety and feasibility of noninvasive multimodal neurologic monitoring (MNM) in patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center. The observational study spanned from January 2017 to February 2019 and included patients undergoing ECMO. Results showed that MNM was safe and feasible, with no adverse events reported. Specific EEG and transcranial Doppler (TCD) findings were identified that could help in early detection of neurologic deterioration. MNM may aid in monitoring, prognostication, and clinical decision-making for ECMO patients.

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ECMO Team

Psychological Safety in an ECMO Retrieval Team: A Qualitative Study to Inform Improvement

This study explores psychological safety within an ECMO retrieval team at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London. By conducting semistructured interviews with consultants, nurses, and perfusionists, researchers identified factors influencing psychological safety. Key findings include the impact of the high-risk environment, structured team processes, and leadership behaviors on team communication and collaboration. Recommendations were made to enhance psychological safety by addressing these factors.

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Hospital Readmissions in Patients Supported with Durable Centrifugal-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices

The study examines hospital readmissions in patients with centrifugal-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs), highlighting the commonality and impact on patient outcomes. Analyzing data from 204 patients, 67.7% experienced heart failure (HF)/LVAD-related readmissions, mainly due to major bleeding, infection, HF exacerbation, and neurological dysfunction. Using machine learning models, several pre-, intra-, and post-operative factors were identified as predictors of readmission risk, which can guide strategies to improve patient management and outcomes.

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Complications During Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in COVID-19 and Non-COVID-19 Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

This study compares complications in COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) undergoing veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (vv-ECMO). Retrospective analysis of 64 patients from March 2020 to March 2022 revealed higher pre-cannulation pneumothorax rates in COVID-19 patients. However, post-cannulation complications and clinical outcomes were similar between groups. Non-survivors showed a trend towards higher post-vv-ECMO complications.

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