ECMO usefulness in refractory shock secondary to Phenylephrine poisoning: About a case in a Pediatric subject

Abstract

Introduction: Phenylephrine is an alpha-agonist with vasoconstrictor effect. Systemic absorption or adverse reaction can cause complications that can be lethal. In those cases of adverse drug reactions with failure to conventional management, the use of ECMO has been reported as a treatment modality. Clinical case: We report the case of a 13 years old teenager, who presented acute pulmonary edema and acute heart failure subsequent to the application of topical phenylephrine during the a rhino-septoplasty procedure, and that warranted placement of ECMO due to failure of conventional treatment. Discussion: Venoarterial ECMO was placed by central cannulation, with ventilatory and hemodynamic improvement, performing the explant successful 4th postoperative day. Conclusions: ECMO as a "bridge to recovery" may be an alternative in those cases of pulmonary or cardiac failure and refractory with a poor response to conventional treatment, as well as an option to save the life of these patients.