Outcomes in Patients Who Received ECMO and/or Volatile Anesthetics as Rescue Therapies for Status Asthmaticus

September 21, 2024 No Comments

This study explores the outcomes of pediatric patients with status asthmaticus (SA) who received either inhaled volatile anesthetics (IVA), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), or both as rescue therapies in a PICU setting. Among seven patients, most who received IVA were escalated to ECMO. The results suggest that early ECMO cannulation might be beneficial, though larger studies are needed to form conclusive guidelines for SA management in critically ill children.

Risk Factors Associated With Hospital Mortality in Non-Surgical Patients Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Continuous Renal Replacement Treatment: A Retrospective Analysis

September 9, 2024 No Comments

This study identifies risk factors associated with hospital mortality in non-surgical patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Using data from December 2013 to April 2023, the analysis revealed that older age, longer duration of CRRT, and CRRT implantation were independent predictors of mortality. A prediction model was developed using these factors, demonstrating good accuracy and clinical utility in estimating patient outcomes.

Brain Death Donors on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support

September 1, 2024 No Comments

This study examines 15 brain death donors on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support, admitted to a specialized intensive care unit between 2018 and 2023. The study evaluates the effect of a strict hemodynamic monitoring schedule during a 6-hour observation period on the utilization rate of organs. Results show an increase in utilization rates from 78% to 88% with no significant differences in donor characteristics or hemodynamic data between periods. Most donors required multiple vasoactive drugs to maintain adequate perfusion.

Risk Factors for Mortality in Patients Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

September 1, 2024 No Comments

This study retrospectively analyzes the clinical data of 199 patients who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support from 2013 to 2023, revealing a mortality rate of 76.38%. The study identifies continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) implantation and age as independent risk factors for mortality in ECMO patients. Additionally, in those receiving combined CRRT and ECMO, the absence of congenital heart disease and a lack of surgical history are also significant mortality risk factors.

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

August 24, 2024 No Comments

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.

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

August 20, 2024 No Comments

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.

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

July 17, 2024 No Comments

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.

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

July 2, 2024 No Comments

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.

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

June 22, 2024 No Comments

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.

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

June 9, 2024 No Comments

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.