Higher Vasoactive-inotropic Score Research Articles

Risk of sepsis after extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients with refractory cardiogenic shock from the RESCUE registry

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Objectives It is known that the incidence of sepsis is higher in patients receiving extracorporeal membranous oxygenation (ECMO). In particular, extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) is performed in emergency situations, which may increase the likelihood of non-aseptic management compared to routine procedures. So, we investigated the association of ECPR and incidence of sepsis in patients with refractory cardiogenic shock (CS). Background Pre- and post-ECPR sepsis are associated with increased mortality, and it is known that the occurrence of sepsis after ECPR is higher than in conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). However, it is not well known whether ECPR has a higher incidence of sepsis than ECMO insertion in non-CPR conditions. Method The SMART-RESCUE study is a multi-center, retrospective and prospective registry of patients that presented with CS. Between January 2014 and December 2018, 1,247 patients with CS were enrolled from 12 major centers in Korea. The incidence of sepsis was compared by dividing into two groups according to whether or not ECPR was performed. Patients with ECMO duration less than 48 hours were excluded. Result Total of 231 patients(mean age 59.46 years, men 67.70%, mead follow-up duration 136.5 days) were analyzed into ECPR group(n=95, 60.7 ± 13.0 years, men 75.8%) and non-ECPR group(n=136, 58.6 ± 15.5 years, men 65.4%) respectively. ECPR group showed lower SBP, lower DBP, lower HR, more shock caused by ischemia, more smoking, lower LVEF, higher Hb, higher serum Na, lower AST, higher Peak troponin I, higher vasoactive inotropic score, higher ICMP portion. After 1:1 propensity score matching corrected for height, SBP, DBP, Hb, initial pump flow, Na, ICMP, vasoactive inotropic score, difference remained in SBP, DBP, HR, cause of shock. Sepsis incidence was 7.4%. The risk for sepsis incidence was not different between two groups(7.4% vs 6.3%, adjusted OR 1.18, 95% CI 0.38-3.65, p=0.774). Conclusion ECPR procedure does not increase sepsis compared to ECMO insertion not in CPR state in patients with cardiogenic shock. Keyword: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, sepsis, cardiogenic shockBaseline characteristicsAdjusted outcomes

Factors that mediate change in creatinine and acute kidney injury after the Norwood operation: insights from high-fidelity haemodynamic monitoring data.

Acute kidney injury is a common postoperative complication of paediatric cardiac surgery associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study is to characterise associations between haemodynamic parameters, clinical parameters, and medical interventions, on acute kidney injury. Nine patients with univentricular physiology undergoing the Norwood procedure from a single-centre tertiary care paediatric cardiac ICU were included (September 2022 to March 2023). Patients were monitored with the T3 software. Data were analysed using a Fisher exact test, Mann-Whitney-U test, LASSO-based machine learning techniques, and receiver operator curve analyses. Over 27,000 datapoints were included. Acute kidney injury occurred in 2 patients (22%) during this period. Net fluid balance and renal oxygen extraction were independently associated with acute kidney injury, while commonly used metrics of pressure (systolic, diastolic, or mean arterial blood pressure) were not. The resulting acute kidney injury risk score was (4.1 × fluid balance) + (1.9 × renal oxygen extraction). The risk score was significantly higher in acute kidney injury with a score of 32.9 compared to 7.9 (p < 0.01). Optimal cut-offs for fluid balance (7 mL/hr) and renal oxygen extraction (29%) were identified. Higher serum creatinine:baseline creatinine ratio was associated with a higher mean airway pressure, higher renal oxygen extraction, higher mean arterial blood pressure, higher vasoactive inotropic score, and fluid balance. Among patients with univentricular physiology undergoing the Norwood procedure, renal oxygen extraction and a higher net fluid balance are independently associated with increased risk of acute kidney injury. Renal perfusion pressure is not significantly associated with acute kidney injury.

Incidence, Risk Factors and Outcomes of Acute Kidney Injury in Neonates Undergoing Open-heart Surgeries: Single Center Experience.

Incidence and outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) among neonates who underwent open-heart surgery are not well highlighted in the literature. We aim to assess the incidence, risk factors, and outcome of AKI among neonates undergoing open-heart surgery. This is a retrospective cohort study between 2016 and 2021 for all neonates requiring open heart surgery. The cases were divided into 2 groups: the AKI (index) group and the non-AKI (control) group. The two groups were statistically compared for risk factors, needs for dialysis, and outcomes. 100 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Among them, 74 (74%) developed AKI, including 41 (55%), 15 (21%), and 18 (24%) patients in KDIGO stages 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Multivariate analysis comparing both groups demonstrated that low pre-operative creatinine (p = 0.01), prolonged bypass time (p = 0.0004) and high vasoactive inotropic score (VIS), (p = 0.0008) were risk factors for developing AKI post-operatively. Furthermore, in the AKI group, 17 (23%) neonates required renal replacement therapy in the form of peritoneal dialysis. The length of stay was higher in the AKI index group (p = 0.015). Patients who had AKI recovered their kidney function at discharge. There was no difference in mortality between both groups. The AKI occurred in 74% of neonates undergoing open-heart surgery, with 23% of them needing peritoneal dialysis. Low pre-operative creatinine, high VIS score, and prolonged bypass time are potential risk factors for AKI development after neonatal open-heart surgery. AKI may lead to prolonged hospitalization, though most affected patients recovered their normal kidney function at discharge.

Risk of sepsis after extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients with refractory cardiogenic shock from the RESCUE registry

Abstract Objectives It is known that the incidence of sepsis is higher in patients receiving extracorporeal membranous oxygenation (ECMO). In particular, extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) is performed in emergency situations, which may increase the likelihood of non-aseptic management compared to routine procedures. So, we investigated the association of ECPR and incidence of sepsis in patients with refractory cardiogenic shock (CS). Background Pre- and post-ECPR sepsis are associated with increased mortality, and it is known that the occurrence of sepsis after ECPR is higher than in conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). However, it is not well known whether ECPR has a higher incidence of sepsis than ECMO insertion in non-CPR conditions. Method The SMART-RESCUE study is a multi-center, retrospective and prospective registry of patients that presented with CS. Between January 2014 and December 2018, 1,247 patients with CS were enrolled from 12 major centers in Korea. The incidence of sepsis was compared by dividing into two groups according to whether or not ECPR was performed. Patients with ECMO duration less than 48 hours were excluded. Result Total of 231 patients(mean age 59.46 years, men 67.70%, mead follow-up duration 136.5 days) were analyzed into ECPR group(n=95, 60.7 ± 13.0 years, men 75.8%) and non-ECPR group(n=136, 58.6 ± 15.5 years, men 65.4%) respectively. ECPR group showed lower SBP, lower DBP, lower HR, more shock caused by ischemia, more smoking, lower LVEF, higher Hb, higher serum Na, lower AST, higher Peak troponin I, higher vasoactive inotropic score, higher ICMP portion. After 1:1 propensity score matching corrected for height, SBP, DBP, Hb, initial pump flow, Na, ICMP, vasoactive inotropic score, difference remained in SBP, DBP, HR, cause of shock. Sepsis incidence was 7.4%. The risk for sepsis incidence was not different between two groups(7.4% vs 6.3%, adjusted OR 1.18, 95% CI 0.38-3.65, p=0.774). Conclusion ECPR procedure does not increase sepsis compared to ECMO insertion not in CPR state in patients with cardiogenic shock.Adjusted Baseline CharacteristicsAdjusted Outcomes

Cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation in pediatric patients with cardiac disease: a narrative review.

Children with cardiac disease are at a higher risk of cardiac arrest as compared to healthy children. Delivering adequate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be challenging due to anatomic characteristics, risk profiles, and physiologies. We aimed to review the physiological aspects of resuscitation in different cardiac physiologies, summarize the current recommendations, provide un update of current literature, and highlight knowledge gaps to guide research efforts. We specifically reviewed current knowledge on resuscitation strategies for high-risk categories of patients including patients with single-ventricle physiology, right-sided lesions, right ventricle restrictive physiology, left-sided lesions, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and arrhythmias. Cardiac arrest occurs in about 1% of hospitalized children with cardiac disease, and in 5% of those admitted to an intensive care unit. Mortality after cardiac arrest in this population remains high, ranging from 30 to 65%. The neurologic outcome varies widely among studies, with a favorable neurologic outcome at discharge observed in 64%-95% of the survivors. Risk factors for cardiac arrest and associated mortality include younger age, lower weight, prematurity, genetic syndrome, single-ventricle physiology, arrhythmias, pulmonary arterial hypertension, comorbidities, mechanical ventilation preceding cardiac arrest, surgical complexity, higher vasoactive-inotropic score, and factors related to resources and institutional characteristics. Recent data suggest that Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation CPR (ECPR) may be a valid strategy in centers with expertise. Overall, knowledge on resuscitation strategies based on physiology remains limited, with a crucial need for further research in this field. Collaborative and interprofessional studies are highly needed to improve care and outcomes for this high-risk population. What is Known: • Children with cardiac disease are at high risk of cardiac arrest, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation may be challenging due to unique characteristics and different physiologies. • Mortality after cardiac arrest remains high and neurologic outcomes suboptimal. What is New: • We reviewed the unique resuscitation challenges, current knowledge, and recommendations for different cardiac physiologies. • We highlighted knowledge gaps to guide research efforts aimed to improve care and outcomes in this high-risk population.

Preliminary study on the predictive value of the vasoactive-inotropic score for the prognosis of neonatal congenital diaphragmatic hernia

BackgroundNo study has reported on the relationship between the vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) and the prognosis of neonates with a severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). This study aimed to identify potential risk factors for mortality in patients with CDH. We calculated the VIS based on the vasoactive drugs used during the perioperative period to investigate the relationship between VIS and infant prognosis.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 75 neonates with CDH who were treated at our center between January 2016 and October 2021. We calculated the maximum and mean VIS during the first 24 h of hospitalization (hosVIS [24max] and hosVIS [24mean], respectively) and after surgery (postVIS [24max] and postVIS [24mean], respectively). The relationship between the VIS and the prognosis of neonates with CDH was analyzed using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, t-test, chi-square test, rank-sum test, and logistic regression analysis.ResultsIn total, 75 participants with CDH were included in the study. The chance of survival was 80%. Our results showed that hosVIS (24max) was an accurate predictor of prognosis (area under the ROC curve = 0.925, p = 0.007). The calculated optimal critical value of hosVIS (24max) for predicting a poor prognosis was 17 (J = 0.75). Multivariate analysis revealed that hosVIS (24max) was an independent risk factor for death in neonates with CDH.ConclusionIn neonates with CDH, a higher VIS, especially hosVIS (24max), suggests worsened cardiac function, a more severe condition, and a higher risk of death. The rising VIS score in infants prompts physicians to implement more aggressive treatment to improve cardiovascular function.

Early-Stage Vasoactive-Inotropic Score and Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Following Cardiac Surgery: A Comparison of Two Non-invasive Heart Function Monitoring Technologies in the Prognosis of Infants

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the efficiencies of the vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in predicting the condition and prognosis of children with congenital heart disease (CHD). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of 104 infants aged &lt; 1 year who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. The maximum and mean postoperative VIS in the first and second 24 hours [VIS (24MAX), VIS (24MEA), VIS (48MAX), and VIS (48MEA)] were recorded. Similarly, LVEF within 24 hours following surgery was monitored. Receiver operator curve (ROC), regression analysis, chi-square test, and t-test were used to analyze both heart function monitoring technologies Results: Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that VIS was strongly associated with adverse events and death [area under ROC (AUROC) &gt; 0.90, P = 0.00], with the two most representative scores being VIS (24MEA) and VIS (48MAX), with cut-off points of 19.42 (sensitivity = 100%; specificity = 93.90%) and 22 (sensitivity = 100%; specificity = 93.90%), respectively for death, and 18.02 (sensitivity = 91.70%; specificity = 89.10%) and 17.75 (sensitivity = 91.70%; specificity = 90.20%), respectively for adverse events. Infants with higher VIS had significantly higher mortality, higher incidence of clinical adverse events, higher lactic acid value, and longer mechanical ventilation and ICU stay (P &lt; 0.05). However, LVEF within 24 hours following surgery was not associated with death (AUROC = 0.65, P = 0.33) or adverse events (AUROC = 0.53, P = 0.81). Moreover, there was no significant change in the length of ICU stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, and lactate value (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusions: Vasoactive-inotropic score at an early stage following surgery was significantly associated with the condition and prognosis of infants with congenital heart disease; however, the predictive value of LVEF within 24 hours following surgery was lower.

Utility of D-dimers in COVID-19 Patients Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.

A retrospective study was performed examining the trend of inflammatory markers, including D-dimers, in 29 COVID-19 patients requiring veno-venous (VV) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. We observed that COVID-19 patients with pre-cannulation D-dimer levels >3,000 ng/mL had a significantly shorter time from admission to cannulation (4.78 vs. 8.44 days, p = 0.049) compared to those with D-dimer <3,000 ng/mL. Furthermore, patients with D-dimer >3,000 ng/mL had a trend of lower pH (7.24 vs. 7.33), higher pCO2 (61.33 vs. 50.69), and higher vasoactive inotropic score (7.23 vs. 3.97) at time of cannulation, however, these were not statistically significant. This cohort of patients also required a longer duration of ECMO support (51.44 vs. 31.25 days). However, 13 patients required at least one ECMO-circuit exchange and 16 patients did not require any exchanges. There was a consistent drop in D-dimer values after every circuit exchange, which was not observed in any of the other examined inflammatory markers, including ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase, or C-reactive protein. We propose that elevated D-dimer levels (>3,000 ng/mL) reflect increased disease severity in COVID-19, and predict a longer ECMO course. Once on ECMO, however, the D-Dimer level consistently decreased with every circuit exchange, which may reflect thrombus within the oxygenator rather than just disease severity.

Cutoff Values of Hemodynamic Parameters in Pediatric Refractory Septic Shock.

Background: Refractory septic shock can cause severe morbidities and mortalities in children. Resuscitation based on hemodynamics is important in children with critical illness. Thus, this study aimed to identify the hemodynamics of refractory septic shock associated with poor prognosis at an early stage to allow for timely interventions. Methods: We evaluated children with refractory septic shock admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and monitored their hemodynamics using a pulse index continuous cardiac output (PiCCO) system. The serial cardiac index (CI), systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI), and vasoactive–inotropic score (VIS) were recorded during the first 72 h after PICU admission. Results: Thirty-three children with refractory septic shock were enrolled. The SVRI and VIS were both associated with fatality from septic shock. The non-survivors had lower serial SVRI and higher VIS (both p < 0.05). Based on the area under the ROC curve, the SVRI was the predictor during the early resuscitative stage (first 36 h) in pediatric refractory septic shock. Conclusions: Both SVRI and VIS are predictors of mortality in children with refractory septic shock, and the SVRI is the powerful predictor of mortality in the early resuscitative stage. A low serial SVRI may allow for the early awareness of disease severity and strategies for adjusting vasoactive–inotropic agents to increase the SVRI.

Cardiac MRI predictors of right ventricular dysfunction after the Da Silva cone operation for Ebstein's anomaly

IntroductionDespite the clinical benefits of the cone operation for Ebstein's anomaly, significant right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is frequently seen immediately after the procedure and if persistent may portend worse long-term outcomes. In this study we sought to evaluate the predictors of RV dysfunction after the cone operation using preoperative CMR. MethodsThis was a retrospective review of 26 consecutive patients who had the cone operation. Patients with significant RV dysfunction (RVD), defined as moderate or severe dysfunction by discharge echocardiogram, were compared to patients with no or mild dysfunction (no RVD). ResultsThe median age at the operation was 12.2 years (interquartile range (IQR): 4.9–31.7 years). Eighteen patients (69%) had RVD. Patients with RVD had worse preoperative RV ejection fraction (36 ​± ​15 vs 49 ​± ​11%, p ​= ​0.02) and a larger cardiothoracic (CT) index (44 ​± ​8 vs 37 ​± ​6, p ​= ​0.03). The tricuspid valve was more severely abnormal in the RVD group with higher rotational angle (45 ​± ​17 vs 23 ​± ​10°, 0.03) and higher displacement index (39 ​± ​18 vs 23 ​± ​12%, p ​= ​0.02). RVD associated with a higher vasoactive inotropic score (P ​< ​0.01) and a trend towards a longer intensive care stay (p ​= ​0.07). ConclusionRVD is common after the cone operation and associated with higher need for postoperative inotropes. Predictors include lower preoperative RV ejection fraction, a more dilated heart and more severe tricuspid valve abnormality. Preoperative CMR is an important tool in preoperative assessment and helps predict RVD.

Vasoactive-Inotropic Score and Vasoactive-Ventilation-Renal Score as Outcome Predictors for Children on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.

We aimed to determine the association of vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) and vasoactive-ventilation-renal (VVR) score with in-hospital mortality and functional outcomes at discharge of children who receive ECMO. A sub-analysis of the multicenter, prospectively collected data by the Collaborative Pediatric Critical Care Research Network (CPCCRN) for Bleeding and Thrombosis on ECMO (BATE database) was conducted. Of the 514 patients who received ECMO across eight centers from December 2012 to February 2016, 421 were included in the analysis. Patients > 18 years of age, patients placed on ECMO directly from cardiopulmonary bypass or as an exit procedure, or patients with an invalid or missing VIS score were excluded. Higher VIS (OR = 1.008, 95% CI: 1.002–1.014, p = 0.011) and VVR (OR: 1.006, 95% CI: 1.001–1.012, p = 0.023) were associated with increased mortality. VIS was associated with worse Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category (PCPC) (OR = 1.027, 95% CI: 1.010–1.044, p = 0.002) and Pediatric Overall Performance Category (POPC) score (OR = 1.023, 95% CI: 1.009–1.038, p = 0.002) at discharge. No association was found between VIS or VVR and Functional Status Score (FSS) at discharge. Using multivariable analyses, controlling for ECMO mode, ECMO location, ECMO indication, primary diagnosis, and chronic diagnosis, extremely high VIS and VVR were still associated with increased mortality.

Pediatric Acute Myocarditis With Short-Term Outcomes and Factors for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study in Vietnam.

Objective: Data on the management and outcomes of acute myocarditis treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) among low- and middle-income countries are limited. This study aimed to determine the short-term outcomes and also identify factors associated with ECMO use among children with acute myocarditis at a tertiary children's hospital in Vietnam.Methods: A single-center, retrospective observational study was conducted between January 2016 and February 2021. Pediatric patients with acute myocarditis, aged 1 month to 16 years, were included.Results: In total, 54 patients (male, 46%; median age, 7 years) with acute myocarditis were included; 37 of them received ECMO support. Thirty percent (16/54) of the patients died, and 12 of them received ECMO. Laboratory variables that differed between survivors and non-survivors included median left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at 48 h (42 vs. 25%; p = 0.001), platelet count (304 g/L [interquartile range (IQR): 243–271] vs. 219 g/L [IQR: 167–297]; p = 0.014), and protein (60 g/dl [IQR: 54–69] vs. 55 [IQR: 50–58]; p = 0.025). Among patients who received ECMO, compared with the survivors, non-survivors had a low LVEF at 48 h (odds ratio (OR), 0.8; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.6–0.9; p = 0.006) and high vasoactive-inotropic score (OR, 1.0; 95% CI: 1.0–1.0; p = 0.038) and lactate (OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.2–6.1; p = 0.013) at 24 h post-ECMO.Conclusions: The case fatality rate among children with acute myocarditis was 30 and 32% among patients requiring ECMO support. Arrhythmia was an indicator for ECMO in patients with cardiogenic shock.

Managing patients of shock and acute kidney injury in tertiary care cardiac ICU: Experience with continuous renal replacement therapy

BackgroundClinical experience on details of CRRT initiation and outcomes in cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) patients is not available from developing countries like India. This study shares the 5-year clinical experience of managing CICU patients requiring CRRT in a tertiary care cardiac center of North India. Materials and methodsMedical records of all CICU patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) managed by CRRT from October 2011 to September 2016 at tertiary referral center in North India were retrospectively reviewed. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of post-CRRT mortality. ResultsA total of 630 patients received CRRT during the study period. Most commonly AKI developed in patients with acute coronary syndrome (30.2 %) with cardiogenic shock. 55.9 % of the CRRT patients were >60 years of age, and/or on multiple supports in ICU including, mechanical ventilation, high doses of inotropes & vasopressors and other cardiovascular support. Of those on CRRT, 130 (20.6 %) patients had died, 215 (34.1 %) were discharged and 285 (45.2 %) could not complete the desired course. Multivariate regression analysis showed independent association of mortality with high vasoactive-inotropic score, single CRRT cycle and low mean arterial pressure in CRRT patients. ConclusionAbout 34.1 % of patients receiving CRRT were alive at discharge, emphasizing the feasibility and utility of CRRT as a promising modality in this population for improving outcomes.

Pertussis Infants Needing Mechanical Ventilation and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Single-Center Retrospective Series in Vietnam.

Pertussis is an infectious disease that causes epidemics and outbreaks and is associated with a high mortality rate, especially in infants, in both developed and developing countries. We aimed to characterize infants with pertussis with respiratory failure and shock and investigated the factors related to mortality. A retrospective, observational study conducted between January 2015 and October 2020. This study was conducted at the Vietnam National Children's Hospital, which is a government hospital that serves as a tertiary care center in Hanoi, Vietnam. Children who fulfilled the following inclusion criteria were included: 1) admitted to the PICU, 2) less than 16 years old, 3) pertussis confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction, and 4) treated with mechanical ventilation due to respiratory failure and shock. None. Seventy-three mechanically ventilated children (40 boys; median age, 56 d), whereas 19 patients received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Twenty-six patients (36%) died including 12 who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Those who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support had higher leukocyte counts upon admission and were more frequently diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension and stage 3 acute kidney injury. Compared with survivors, nonsurvivors showed increased heart rates, leukocyte and neutrophil counts, and lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure at admission. Increased Vasoactive-Inotropic Score, stage 3 acute kidney injury, fluid overload, the use of renal replacement therapy, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use were prevalent among nonsurvivors. In this study, around one third of mechanically ventilated patients with pertussis died. Those who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation had higher leukocyte counts, a higher prevalence of pulmonary hypertension, and advanced stages of acute kidney injury. Higher Vasoactive-Inotropic Score and advanced stages of acute kidney injury were associated with a greater risk of mortality.

Differential Prognostic Implications of Vasoactive Inotropic Score for Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock According to Use of Mechanical Circulatory Support.

To identify whether the prognostic implications of Vasoactive Inotropic Score according to use of mechanical circulatory support differ in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock. A multicenter retrospective and prospective observational cohort study. The REtrospective and prospective observational Study to investigate Clinical oUtcomes and Efficacy registry includes 1,247 patients with cardiogenic shock from 12 centers in Korea. A total of 836 patients with acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock were finally selected, and the study population was stratified by quartiles of Vasoactive Inotropic Score (< 10, 10-30, 30-90, and > 90) for the present study. None. Primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality and secondary endpoint was follow-up mortality. Among the study population, 326 patients (39.0%) received medical treatment alone, 218 (26.1%) received intra-aortic balloon pump, and 292 (34.9%) received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. In-hospital mortality occurred in 305 patients (36.5%) and was significantly higher in patients with higher Vasoactive Inotropic Score (15.6%, 20.8%, 40.2%, and 67.3%, for < 10, 10-30, 30-90, and > 90; p < 0.001). Vasoactive Inotropic Score showed better ability to predict in-hospital mortality in acute myocardial infarction patients with cardiogenic shock who received medical treatment alone (area under the curve: 0.797; 95% CI, 0.728-0.865) than in those who received intra-aortic balloon pump (area under the curve, 0.704; 95% CI, 0.625-0.783) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (area under the curve, 0.644; 95% CI, 0.580-0.709). The best cutoff value of Vasoactive Inotropic Score for the prediction of in-hospital mortality also differed according to the use of mechanical circulatory support (16.5, 40.1, and 84.0 for medical treatment alone, intra-aortic balloon pump, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, respectively). There was a significant interaction between Vasoactive Inotropic Score as a continuous value and the use of mechanical circulatory support including intra-aortic balloon pump (interaction-p = 0.006) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (interaction-p < 0.001) for all-cause mortality during follow-up. High Vasoactive Inotropic Score was associated with significantly higher in-hospital and follow-up mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock. The predictive value of Vasoactive Inotropic Score for mortality was significantly higher in acute myocardial infarction patients with cardiogenic shock treated by medical treatment alone than in those treated by mechanical circulatory support such as intra-aortic balloon pump or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

Evaluation of neonatal acute kidney injury after critical congenital heart disease surgery.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of congenital heart diseases (CHDs) after cardiac surgery. This study aimed to define the frequency and critical course, risk factors and short-term outcomes of AKI in postoperative CHD neonates. Postoperatively followed term CHD newborn infants were enrolled in the study. Infants with congenital anomalies of the urinary tract and other major congenital anomalies were excluded. Neonatal modified KDIGO criteria were used to assess AKI. A total of 199 postoperatively followed newborn infants were included in the study. Acute kidney injury was detected in 71 (35.6%) patients. Of these patients, 24 (33.8%) were in stage 1, 14 (19.7%) in stage 2, and 33 (46.5%) in stage 3. Acute kidney injury occurred within the first week (median 1 day [IQR 1-2 days]) of cardiac surgery in 93% of the patients. The duration of invasive respiratory support and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and mortality were significantly higher in stage 3 patients. Higher vasoactive-inotropic score (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.0-1.04; p = 0.008) and receiving ECMO (OR, 7.9; 95% CI, 2.6-24.4; p = 0.001) were associated with risk for the development of AKI. The mortality rate was 52.1% in the AKI (+) patients, and having AKI (OR 7.1; 95% CI, 3.5-14.18) was significantly associated with mortality. Acute kidney injury, a common early complication after critical neonatal CHD cardiac surgery, is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Stage 3 AKI is associated with significantly higher mortality rates.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in a PICU of a Developing Economy: Clinical Profile, Intensive Care Needs, Outcome, and Predictors of Mortality.

To describe the clinical profile, intensive care needs, outcome, and predictors of mortality in critically ill children with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Retrospective case series. PICU of a tertiary care teaching hospital in North India. Children 2 months to 12 years old with the diagnosis of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis admitted to PICU from January 2012 to April 2019 (7¼ yr). None. Sixty-two children with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (60 secondary and two primary) were enrolled. The median (interquartile range) age of the study group was 82 months (50.5-124 mo). The median (interquartile range) Pediatric Risk of Mortality III score was 16 (10-23). Majority of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis was infection-associated (n = 51; 82.3%). Among these, scrub typhus accounted for 29% of cases (n = 18), dengue 17.7% (n = 11), bacterial sepsis 14.5% (n = 9), enteric fever 6.5% (n = 4), and other infections 14.5% (n = 9). Systemic-onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis accounted for 9.7% of cases (n = 6) and malignancy for 4.8% patients (n = 3). Majority of cases were treated with steroids (77.4%) and IV immunoglobulin (25.8%). Various complications noted were shock (71%), acute kidney injury (66.1%), acute respiratory distress syndrome (41.9%), disseminated intravascular coagulation (54.8%), CNS dysfunction (54.8%), multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (82.3%), and healthcare-associated infections (14.5%). Intensive care needs for primary illness and/or hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis included mechanical ventilation (74.2%); packed RBC (72.3%), fresh frozen plasma (40.3%), and platelet (48.4%) transfusion; vasoactive drugs (71%); and renal replacement therapy (24.2%). The median duration of PICU stay was 5 days (2.5-9.5 d) and mortality was 59.7% (n = 37). On univariate analysis, nonsurvivors had higher Pediatric Risk of Mortality III score; higher proportion of shock, acute kidney injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome; the need for blood and blood components, mechanical ventilation, vasoactive drugs, and renal replacement therapy; higher Vasoactive-Inotropic Score; and prolonged duration of mechanical ventilation compared with survivors. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in PICU is commonly secondary to tropical infections and associated with high mortality. Higher severity of illness; shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome; need for blood and blood products, mechanical ventilation, vasoactive drugs, and renal replacement therapy; higher Vasoactive-Inotropic Score; and prolonged mechanical ventilation predicted death. Treatment of underlying infection and a less intense immunosuppressive therapy (steroids ± IV immunoglobulin) are suggested options. A high index of suspicion for complicating hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is required in children with prolonged fever, cytopenias, organomegaly, and organ dysfunction not responding to conventional treatment.

Rise in Angiopoietin-2 Following Neonatal Cardiac Surgery Is Associated With Adverse Clinical Outcomes.

Neonatal cardiac surgery for congenital cardiac defects is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and there is a need for early identification of patients at highest risk of adverse outcomes. Because vascular endothelial injury mediates damage across organ systems, we measured serum biomarkers of endothelial injury in neonates following cardiopulmonary bypass and examined their associations with short-term outcomes. Prospective cohort study. Pediatric cardiac ICU. Thirty neonates less than 2 weeks old undergoing repair of congenital cardiac defects with cardiopulmonary bypass. None. Biomarkers of endothelial integrity, angiopoietin-1 and angiopoietin-2, were measured preoperatively and at 24 hours postoperatively. A composite adverse outcome was defined as any of the following: stroke, need for renal replacement therapy, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support, cardiac arrest, or death. Associations of biomarkers with adverse outcomes were examined using Wilcoxon rank-sum test. There was an increase in angiopoietin-2 from preoperatively to 24 hours postoperatively (p < 0.0001) and a decrease in angiopoietin-1 from preoperatively to 24 hours postoperatively (p < 0.0001). Patients with greater rise in angiopoietin-2 from preoperatively to 24 hours postoperatively had greater risk of composite adverse outcome (p = 0.04). They had a trend toward higher Vasoactive-Inotropic Score (p = 0.06) and a higher prevalence of low cardiac output syndrome (p = 0.06). Twenty-four hour postoperative angiopoietin-2 level was associated with the composite adverse outcome (p = 0.03). The rise in angiopoietin-2 level from preoperatively to 24 hours postoperatively directly correlated with cardiopulmonary bypass duration (r = 0.47; p = 0.01). In neonatal cardiac surgery, longer duration of cardiopulmonary bypass is directly associated with greater endothelial injury as measured by increased serum levels of angiopoietin-2. Angiopoietin-2 levels 24 hours postoperatively were significantly associated with a composite adverse outcome. Postoperative angiopoietin-2 level may serve as an early indicator of patients in need of closer monitoring and protective intervention. Further research into endothelial protective strategies is warranted.

Clinical features and outcomes of pediatric acute fulminant myocarditis requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Objective: To observe the clinical features and effects of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in critically ill children with acute fulminant myocarditis (AFM). Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed in pediatric patients with AFM requiring ECMO, from December 2015 to December 2018, who were admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in Shanghai Children's Hospital. According to whether patient was alive at least 48 hours after weaning, the children were divided into successful weaning group (9 cases) and unsucessful weaning group (3 cases). The factors related to successful ECMO weaning were explored. The changes of clinical and biochemical parameters before and after ECMO treatment in successful weaning group were analyzed. Continuous variables were presented as median (inter quartile range) for abnormal distribution data, and Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the data. Results: A total of 12 pediatric patients including 4 males and 8 females were enrolled in this study. The median body weight was 20 (17, 36) kg, and the median age was 66 (48, 103) months. Nine cases were successfully weaned from ECMO, and 8 cases survived to discharge, and 4 cases died in the hospital. The median interval between symptoms onset and ECMO establishment was 3.0 (2.2, 4.0) days, the median duration of ECMO support was 120 (68, 152) hours. In the unsuccessful weaning group, patients displayed higher levels of initiallactic acid (LA), higher vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS), and longer QRS duration before ECMO establishment when compared with those in the successful weaning group (all P<0.05). After ECMO establishment, mean arterial pressure (MAP), systemic central venous oxygen saturation, LA, myocardial injury markers and left ventricular ejection fraction were all significantly improved in the successful weaning group (all P<0.05). Conclusion: In pediatric AFM patients, serum LA level, VIS and QRS duration before ECMO establishment are associated with successful ECMO weaning.

Predictive Value of Vasoactive-inotropic Score for Mortality in Newborns Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Vasoactive-inotropic Score (VIS) was developed to quantify the amount of inotropic support provided in the postoperative period. We investigated the predictive value of (VIS) for mortality in neonates with congenital heart disease (CHD). Prospective cohort. 119 newborns who underwent cardiac surgery. Tertiary NICU-CHD center of Ankara from November 2016 to January 2019. VIS values were calculated by a standard formula for the first 72 postoperative hours, and the maximum score was recorded. Duration of mechanical ventilation, NICU length of stay, and mortality. At surgery, the median (IQR) age was 15 d (9-31). The patients were divided into two groups according to mortality; Group 1 (Non-survivors) (n=36) and Group 2 (Survivors) (n=83). Higher VIS score was correlated to longer duration of mechanical ventilation (P=0.009, r=0.33), and was higher among patients who died (P=0.003). Area under the curve (AUC) was 0,83 (P<0.001, CI: 95% 0.7-0.9) for VIS to identify mortality. At a cut-off value of 15.5, sensitivity and negative predictive values of VIS for mortality were 73.6% and 85.3%, respectively. The higher VIS (>15.5) was independently associated with increased odds for mortality (OR: 8.1, 95% CI: 1.8-35.7, P=0.005). In newborns with CHD, a higher VIS within 72 hours after cardiac surgery is associated with increased duration of mechanical ventilation, and mortality. VIS may be useful for prediction of mortality at early postoperative period.