Pediatric Cardiac Patients with Pulmonary Hemorrhage Supported on ECMO: An ELSO Registry Study

Pediatric Cardiac Patients with Pulmonary Hemorrhage Supported on ECMO: An ELSO Registry Study

This study examines pediatric cardiac patients with pulmonary hemorrhage (PH) supported on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) using data from the ELSO registry (2011–2020). Analyzing 161 cases, the study identifies high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) before ECMO cannulation as a key predictor of survival. The absence of hemorrhagic and renal complications also improved outcomes. Findings suggest that optimized pre-ECMO ventilation strategies may enhance survival rates in these high-risk patients.

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Development and Validation of a Checklist for Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Development and Validation of a Checklist for Cardiopulmonary Bypass

This study focuses on developing and validating a checklist for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) to enhance patient safety and reduce adverse events. Using the Delphi method, five expert perfusionists refined an initial 42-item checklist down to 41 crucial elements. The final checklist standardizes CPB procedures, ensuring systematic verification of equipment and protocols. The study highlights the importance of structured guidelines in improving surgical outcomes and preventing errors.

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EBCP 2024 Guidelines

2024 EACTS/EACTAIC/EBCP Guidelines on Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Adult Cardiac Surgery

The 2024 EACTS/EACTAIC/EBCP guidelines provide updated, evidence-based recommendations for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in adult cardiac surgery. They cover advancements in perfusion strategies, organ protection, monitoring techniques, and safety measures. Key updates include AI-driven perfusion, enhanced neuromonitoring, and refined protocols for blood management and CPB separation. These guidelines aim to standardize practices, improve outcomes, and ensure patient safety in modern cardiac surgery.

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Lung Preservation

The 2024 American Association for Thoracic Surgery Expert Consensus Document: Current Standards in Donor Lung Procurement and Preservation

This expert consensus document from the American Association for Thoracic Surgery outlines standardized best practices for donor lung procurement and preservation. It highlights significant variability in existing techniques and emphasizes the role of ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP), cold storage, and normothermic regional perfusion. The document provides 34 evidence-based recommendations aimed at improving organ utilization and lung transplant outcomes.

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Fluid Management in Adult Patients Undergoing Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Scoping Review

Fluid Management in Adult Patients Undergoing Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Scoping Review

This review explores fluid management in patients supported by venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). It highlights the lack of evidence for optimal fluid strategies, comparing liberal vs. restrictive approaches, or types like crystalloids and albumin. Fluid overload negatively affects survival and kidney outcomes, emphasizing the need for precise strategies. The study calls for rigorous research to determine effective fluid resuscitation approaches and improve clinical outcomes.

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Failure to Oxygenate During Cardiopulmonary Bypass: Treatment Options and Intervention Algorithm

Failure to Oxygenate During Cardiopulmonary Bypass: Treatment Options and Intervention Algorithm

This study addresses the critical issue of oxygenator failure during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), a rare but high-risk event. It explores protocols and techniques for addressing oxygenator malfunction, including traditional oxygenator change-outs and alternative approaches like arterial and venous piggyback methods. The authors emphasize the need for institutional preparation, including written protocols and routine emergency drills, and propose a venous piggyback technique as a safer first-line response to improve patient outcomes.

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Cerebral Perfusion

Cerebral Overperfusion Despite Reduced Cortical Metabolism Is Associated with Postoperative Delirium in Cardiac Surgery Patients: A Prospective Observational Study

This study investigates the relationship between cerebral overperfusion and postoperative delirium (POD) in cardiac surgery patients. Despite reduced cortical metabolism, patients with POD exhibited increased cerebral blood flow, measured via transcranial Doppler. Low bispectral index (BIS) values indicated reduced metabolism, but no differences in autoregulation impairments were noted. The findings suggest a mismatch between cerebral blood flow and metabolism contributes to POD, independent of cerebral autoregulation.

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OR Ready

Global Perfusion Practice Survey: Readiness of On-Call and Emergency Operation Rooms

This survey examines the readiness of on-call and emergency operation rooms for perfusion-related procedures during urgent situations in cardiac surgery. Data from 236 healthcare professionals highlight varied preferences for circuit readiness, influenced by caseload, response times, and other factors. The study underscores the need for standardized protocols to enhance perfusion safety and improve patient care.

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