Membrane Oxygenation In Adults Research Articles

42: Acquired blood stream infections during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults: risk factors and outcomes.

42: Acquired blood stream infections during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults: risk factors and outcomes.

Patient and Management Variables Associated With Survival After Postcardiotomy Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults: The PELS-1 Multicenter Cohort Study.

Background Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been increasingly used for postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock, but without a concomitant reduction in observed in-hospital mortality. Long-term outcomes are unknown. This study describes patients' characteristics, in-hospital outcome, and 10-year survival after postcardiotomy ECMO. Variables associated with in-hospital and postdischarge mortality are investigated and reported. Methods and Results The retrospective international multicenter observational PELS-1 (Postcardiotomy Extracorporeal Life Support) study includes data on adults requiring ECMO for postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock between 2000 and 2020 from 34 centers. Variables associated with mortality were estimated preoperatively, intraoperatively, during ECMO, and after the occurrence of any complications, and then analyzed at different time points during a patient's clinical course, through mixed Cox proportional hazards models containing fixed and random effects. Follow-up was established by institutional chart review or contacting patients. This analysis included 2058 patients (59% were men; median [interquartile range] age, 65.0 [55.0-72.0] years). In-hospital mortality was 60.5%. Independent variables associated with in-hospital mortality were age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.02 [95% CI, 1.01-1.02]) and preoperative cardiac arrest (HR, 1.41 [95% CI, 1.15-1.73]). In the subgroup of hospital survivors, the overall 1-, 2-, 5-, and 10-year survival rates were 89.5% (95% CI, 87.0%-92.0%), 85.4% (95% CI, 82.5%-88.3%), 76.4% (95% CI, 72.5%-80.5%), and 65.9% (95% CI, 60.3%-72.0%), respectively. Variables associated with postdischarge mortality included older age, atrial fibrillation, emergency surgery, type of surgery, postoperative acute kidney injury, and postoperative septic shock. Conclusions In adults, in-hospital mortality after postcardiotomy ECMO remains high; however, two-thirds of those who are discharged from hospital survive up to 10 years. Patient selection, intraoperative decisions, and ECMO management remain key variables associated with survival in this cohort. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03857217.

Effectiveness of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults

Effectiveness of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults

Clinical practice of double lumen cannula for veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults

Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) is a life support technique for patients with severe respiratory failure. In the past, single lumen cannula was mostly used to constract the vascular pathway of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Compared with single-lumen cannula, double lumen cannula (DLC) can reduce recirculation fraction, reduce complications such as infection and bleeding, and facilitate patient's rehabilitation. DLC requires accurate positioning of the catheter. It has been gradually applied in China. This paper will review the key points related to the use of DLC, such as the insertion, position, and complications, etc. to provide guidance for clinical application practice.

Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults with Septic Shock

Survivors and non-survivors were compared for 20 adults supported with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) for refractory septic shock from 2012-2018. The primary outcome was hospital survival. Secondary outcomes were ECMO associated complications and survival to decannulation. Median age was 53.5 (IQR 42.0-61.3). At ≤ 24 hours prior to cannulation, median SOFA score was 17.5 (IQR 15 - 19) and 17 patients (85%) had new cardiac dysfunction. Median left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 20% (IQR 10-38). Thirteen patients had a mixed (cardiogenic and distributive) or cardiogenic shock profile (65%), 7 had a distributive shock profile (35%), and 17 (85%) survived to decannulation. Fourteen (70%) survived to hospital discharge and median cerebral performance category score was 1 (IQR 1-2). No differences were found in age, comorbid conditions, time from shock onset to cannulation, peak flow rate on ECMO, ECMO complications, shock profile, LVEF, or vasoactive-inotrope score (VIS). More patients in the distributive shock profile experienced limb ischemia complications (n=3, 42.9%) compared to the cardiogenic and mixed shock profiles (n=1, 7.7%). Survivors to hospital discharge had a lower SOFA score. VA ECMO support may be a beneficial therapy for refractory septic shock and could be considered in select adult patients.

Health-related outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundPatients with critical illness may face challenges after hospital discharge; therapeutic outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are typically measured by survival rate. However, ECMO is an integral part of treatment in critical care medicine, which requires an outcome measure beyond survival. Post-discharge health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is such an indicator. ObjectivesTo measure HRQoL in adult patients who had previously undergone ECMO and explore influential factors related to HRQoL. MethodsThis cross-sectional descriptive study used a convenience sample of patients discharged between April 2006-April 2016 after at least one month following ECMO. The study was conducted from October 2015 to October 2016, which included data collected from structured questionnaires: the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Impact of Event Scale-Revised and Short-Form Survey-36-v2. Stepwise linear regression determined predictor variables of physical and mental HRQoL. Results: Age of participants (N = 144) ranged from 24 to 81 years; long-term survival rate was 28.6% after a median follow-up of 1060 days (range = 44–3150 days). Mean scores for physical and mental components of HRQoL were 46.32 and 50.39, respectively. Level of HRQoL was low to moderate. Employment affected all physical components of HRQoL; depression was the main predictor for physical and mental components. Self-perceived health status and anxiety were also factors that influenced HRQoL. ConclusionsVariables of employment, self-perceived health status and mental health influenced HRQoL. Early assessment of these factors by healthcare professionals can allow integration of multidimensional interventions following hospital discharge, which could improve HRQoL for patients weaned from ECMO.

Personalized ECMO: Crafting Individualized Support

EXTRACORPOREAL MEMBRANE OXYGENATION (ECMO), at its most fundamental level, consists of an oxygenator, pump, inflow, and outflow. However, these simple components can be used to construct much more complicated circuits that can support a variety of physiologic functions. Venovenous (VV) ECMO can support patients with stable hemodynamics who require respiratory support beyond what standard ventilator techniques can provide. These patients frequently are diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Venoarterial (VA) ECMO not only maintains the respiratory support provided by VV ECMO, but provides hemodynamic support as well. 1 Napp LC Kühn C Hoeper MM et al. Cannulation strategies for percutaneous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults. Clin Res Cardiol. 2016; 105: 283-296 Crossref PubMed Scopus (123) Google Scholar Although these two traditional configurations are sufficient to support most patients requiring ECMO, patients exist who require more complex circulatory support tailored to their individual physiologic condition. Additional cannulation sites can be used to support circulatory function, creating triple cannulation circuits, including venoarteriovenous (V-AV) or venovenoarterial (VV-A) ECMO. For example, these configurations are useful in cases of upper body hypoxia or insufficient drainage from the original venous cannulation. 1 Napp LC Kühn C Hoeper MM et al. Cannulation strategies for percutaneous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults. Clin Res Cardiol. 2016; 105: 283-296 Crossref PubMed Scopus (123) Google Scholar Additionally, temporary left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) and right ventricular assist devices that also provide oxygenation (OxyRVADs) can support patients with diminished left or right heart function. 2 Ando M Garan AR Takayama H et al. A continuous-flow external ventricular assist device for cardiogenic shock: Evolution over 10 years. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg. 2018; 156: 157-165 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (15) Google Scholar In this case, the authors demonstrate how a complex and evolving clinical picture can necessitate the use of multiple different modes of ECMO support.

The Saudi Critical Care Society extracorporeal life support chapter guidance on utilization of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults with acute respiratory distress syndrome and special considerations in the era of coronavirus disease 2019.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is considered as a supportive treatment that provides circulatory and ventilatory support and can be thought off as a bridge to organ recovery. Since 2009, it has been applied as a rescue treatment for patients with severe adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) mainly due to viral causes. In December 2019, several patients presented with a constellation of symptoms of viral pneumonia in China. A new strain of the corona virus family, called COVID-19, has been discovered to be the cause of this severe mysterious illness that was named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2). This new virus continued to spread across the globe leading to the World Health Organization announcing it as a pandemic in the early 2020. By the end of March 2021, the number of COVID-19 cases worldwide exceeded 126 million cases. In Saudi Arabia, the first confirmed case of COVID-19 was reported in the 2nd March 2020. By the end of March 2021, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Saudi Arabia is just above 360,000. In anticipation of the need of ECMO for the treatment of patients with SARS‑CoV‑2 based on the previous Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus pandemic experience, the Saudi Extra-Corporeal Life Support (ECLS) chapter that is under the umbrella of the Saudi Critical Care Society (SCCS) convened a working group of ECMO experts. The mission of this group was to formulate a guidance for the use of ECMO as a last resort for patients with severe ARDS, especially with COVID-19 based on available evidence. The ECLS-SCCS chapter wanted to generate a document that can be used to simple guide, with a focus on safety, to provide ECMO service for patients with severe ARDS with a special focus on SARS‑CoV‑2.

Outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults with active hematologic and nonhematologic malignancy.

Although the number of cancer patients admitted to the intensive care unit is increasing, the data on the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in patients with malignancy are limited. We applied extracorporeal membrane oxygenation to carefully selected patients with active hematologic malignancy or nonhematologic malignancy who experienced respiratory or cardiac failure despite maximal conventional therapy. Patients with active malignancy who underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in our institution between January 2012 and December 2016 were included in this study. The primary outcome of this study was defined as survival to hospital discharge. We also investigated the factors associated with survival to hospital discharge. There were 30 (30.6%) and 68 (69.4%) patients in the hematologic malignancy group and the nonhematologic malignancy group, respectively. Patients in the hematologic malignancy group were younger, more neutropenic, more hypotensive, had a lower Charlson Comorbidity Index, higher sequential organ failure assessment score, and lower platelet count than those in the nonhematologic malignancy group. Forty-six (46.9%) patients were successfully weaned off extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and 30 (30.6%) patients survived until hospital discharge. Hospital survival rate and survival status 6months after hospital discharge were significantly lower in patients with hematologic malignancy than in those with nonhematologic malignancy (13.3% vs. 38.2%, P=.026 and 3.3% vs. 26.5%, P=.017, respectively). Multivariate analysis identified an active hematologic malignancy, older age, acidosis, thrombocytopenia, high vasoactive-inotrope score, and respiratory failure as the risk factors for in-hospital death. Patients with hematologic malignancy requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support had significantly lower rates of hospital survival and 6-month survival after discharge than patients with nonhematologic malignancy. Therefore, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for treating cardiac or respiratory failure should only be considered in highly selected patients with hematologic malignancy.

Conversion from Venovenous to Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults.

No major study has been performed on the conversion from venovenous (VV) to venoarterial (VA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in adults. This single-center retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the incidence, indication, and outcome in patients who converted from VV to VA ECMO. All adult patients (≥18 years) who commenced VV ECMO at our center between 2005 and 2018 were screened. Of 219 VV ECMO patients, 21% (n = 46) were converted to VA ECMO. The indications for conversion were right ventricular failure (RVF) (65%), cardiogenic shock (26%), and other (9%). In the converted patients, there was a significant increase in Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores between admission 12 (9–13) and conversion 15 (13–17, p < 0.001). Compared to non-converted patients, converted patients also had a higher mortality rate (62% vs. 16%, p < 0.001) and a lower admission Respiratory Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Survival Prediction (RESP) score (p < 0.001). Outcomes were especially unfavorable in those converted due to RVF. These results indicate that VA ECMO, as opposed to VV ECMO, should be considered as the first mode of choice in patients with respiratory failure and signs of circulatory impairment, especially in those with impaired RV function. For the remaining patients, Pre-admission RESP score, daily echocardiography, and SOFA score trajectories may help in the early identification of those where conversion from VV to VA ECMO is warranted. Multi-centric studies are warranted to validate these findings.

Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor Levels During Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults.

Tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) has multiple anticoagulant properties. To our knowledge, no studies have measured TFPI levels in adult veno-arterial (VA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients. We hypothesized that adult VA ECMO patients would have increased TFPI levels and slowed tissue factor triggered thrombin generation. Twenty VA ECMO patients had TFPI levels and thrombin generation lag time measured on ECMO day 1 or 2, day 3, and day 5. TFPI levels and thrombin generation lag time were compared against healthy control plasma samples. Mean TFPI levels were significantly higher in ECMO patients on ECMO day 1 or 2 = 81,877 ± 19,481 pg/mL, day 3 = 73,907 ± 26,690 pg/mL, and day 5 = 77,812 ± 23,484 pg/mL compared with control plasma = 38,958 ± 9,225 pg/mL (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). Median thrombin generation lag time was significantly longer in ECMO patients on ECMO day 1 or 2 = 10.0 minutes [7.5, 13.8], day 3 = 9.0 minutes [6.8, 12.1], and day 5 = 10.7 minutes [8.3, 15.2] compared with control plasma = 3.6 minutes [2.9, 4.2] (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). TFPI is increased in VA ECMO patients and tissue factor triggered thrombin generation is slowed. Increased TFPI levels could contribute to the multifactorial coagulopathy that occurs during ECMO.

Extubation during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults: An international qualitative study on experts’ opinions

BackgroundExtracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults (adult-ECMO), a modification of cardiopulmonary bypass is increasingly used. Liberation from mechanical ventilation, or extubation, during adult-ECMO remains a challenge. ObjectivesThis study aimed to understand expert perceptions of the reasonableness of extubation during adult-ECMO and the usefulness of an extubation clinical practice guideline (ECPG). MethodsHomogeneous purposive sampling, focus groups, and interviews with a discussion guide, and direct content, thematic analysis were used. ResultsFourteen volunteers participated with different educational levels (79% Doctor of Medicine, 14% Registered Nurse, 7% Nurse Practitioner), from high-volume ECMO centers of various annual ECMO runs (50% 30–49 ECMO/year, 36% 50–99 ECMO/year, 14% >100 ECMO/year) worldwide (64% North America, 21% South America, 7% Europe, 7% Asia). Seven themes were identified: paucity of evidence, mindsets towards using an ECPG, barriers, criteria and benefits of extubation, culture towards extubation and vision of the future. Participants recommended aiming for extubation based on patient selection, and a standardized extubation approach with an ECPG or team decision-making. ConclusionApplication of adult-ECMO is expanding, during which extubation remains difficult. Experts recommend two methods of a standardized extubation approach.

Outcomes of left ventricular unloading with a transseptal cannula during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults

We evaluated the benefit of left ventricular (LV) unloading using a percutaneous transseptal left atrial (LA) drain catheter via femoral vein incorporated into the ECMO venous circuit. This single-center retrospective observational study analyzed clinical outcomes of the LA venting group (N=62) who underwent percutaneous transseptal LA drain placement comparing with the conventionally treated control group (N=62) with an arterial pulse pressure below 10mm Hg for at least 24hours from December 2012 to August 2018. The ECMO weaning rate (61.3% vs. 38.7%, P=.012) and cardiac transplantation rate (29.0% vs. 11.3%, P=.014) were higher in the LA venting group than in the control group. Inhospital mortality was not significantly different (56.5% vs. 69.4%, P=.191). Pulmonary congestion mostly improved after LA decompression (61.3%, P=.003). A serum lactate level at 24hours after LA venting of more than 2.2mmol/L was associated with poor outcomes. LA venting via transseptal cannula reduced pulmonary venous congestion and achieved higher rates of successful ECMO weaning and cardiac transplantation. Placement of a transseptal venous drain cannula should be considered in patients with uncontrolled pulmonary edema secondary to severe LV loading undergoing VA-ECMO.

Effect of Driving Pressure Change During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Randomized Crossover Physiologic Study.

Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is an effective intervention to improve gas exchange in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, the mortality of patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome supported with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation remains high, and this may be due in part to a lack of standardized mechanical ventilation strategies aimed at further minimizing ventilator-induced lung injury. We tested whether a continuous positive airway pressure ventilation strategy mitigates ventilator-induced lung injury in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, compared with current ventilation practice that employs tidal ventilation with limited driving pressure. We used plasma biomarkers as a surrogate outcome for ventilator-induced lung injury. Randomized crossover physiologic study. Single-center ICU. Ten patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome supported on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The study included four phases. After receiving pressure-controlled ventilation with driving pressure of 10 cm H2O for 1 hour (phase 1), patients were randomly assigned to receive first either pressure-controlled ventilation 20 cm H2O for 2 hours (phase 2) or continuous positive airway pressure for 2 hours (phase 3), and then crossover to the other phase for 2 hours; during phase 4 ventilation settings returned to baseline (pressure-controlled ventilation 10 cm H2O) for 4 hours. There was a linear relationship between the change in driving pressure and the plasma concentration of interleukin-6, soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products, interleukin-1ra, tumor necrosis factor alpha, surfactant protein D, and interleukin-10. Ventilator-induced lung injury may occur in acute respiratory distress syndrome patients on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation despite the delivery of volume- and pressure-limited mechanical ventilation. Reducing driving pressure to zero may provide more protective mechanical ventilation in acute respiratory distress syndrome patients supported with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. However, the risks versus benefits of such an approach need to be confirmed in studies that are designed to test patient centered outcomes.

A narrative review of antithrombin use during veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults: rationale, current use, effects on anticoagulation, and outcomes.

During extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, the large contact surface between the blood and the extracorporeal circuit causes a continuous activation of coagulation and inflammation. Unfractionated heparin, a glycosaminoglycan that must bind to antithrombin as a cofactor, is currently the standard anticoagulant adopted during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Antithrombin, beyond being a potent natural anticoagulant, acts in the cross-talk between coagulation and inflammatory system through anticoagulation and coagulation-independent effects. In this review, we describe, in the adult setting of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, the pathophysiological rationale for antithrombin use, the current practice of administration, and the effects of antithrombin on anticoagulation, bleeding, and outcomes. Studies on adults (18 years or older) on veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation published from 1995 to 2018 in order to evaluate the use of antithrombin. In adults on veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, antithrombin supplementation has a highly pathophysiological rationale since coagulation factor consumption, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and endothelial activation are triggered by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Eleven articles are focused on the topic but among the authors there is no consensus on the threshold for supplementation (ranging from 70% to 80%) as well as on the dose (rarely standardized) and time of administration (bolus vs continuous infusion). Consistently, antithrombin is considered able to achieve better anticoagulation targets in or not in the presence of heparin resistance. The impact of antithrombin administration on bleeding still shows contrasting results. Antithrombin use in veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation should be investigated on the threshold for supplementation, dose, and time of administration.

Predictors of complications related to venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults: A multicenter retrospective cohort study

IntroductionVenoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is a complex technology associated with risks and complications. ObjectiveTo identify predictors of complications related to VA-ECMO in adults. MethodsA retrospective cohort study, including 63 adult patients undergoing VA-ECMO, performed at two institutions in Brazil, from the time both centers implemented VA-ECMO (1999 in Institution A and 2012 in Institution B) treatment through March of 2018. The association between independent variables (institution, demographic, indications for ECMO, and pre-ECMO clinical characteristics) and the outcomes (neurological, renal, vascular, hemorrhagic, infectious, and mechanical complications) was investigated by means of multiple logistic regressions. ResultsPredictors of neurological complications were refractory cardiogenic shock following cardiotomy (OR = 0.10; 95% CI 0.00–1.01; p = 0.049) and following heart or lung transplant (OR = 0.04; 95% CI 0.00–0.42; p = 0.018). The use of inotropes/vasopressors was a predictor of vascular complications (OR = 7.72; 95% CI 1.83–39.87; p = 0.008). The levels of CK-MB were a predictor of renal complications (OR = 0.87; 95% CI 0.72–0.97; p = 0.046). Predictors of infectious complications were total bilirubin (OR = 0.02; 95% CI 0.00–0.26; p = 0.038) and body weight odds (OR = 1.24; 95% CI 1.08–1.61; p = 0.028). Class III heart failure was a predictor of mechanical complications (OR = 0.07; 95% CI 0.00–0.66; p = 0.034). ConclusionIdentifying predictors of complications may contribute to the indications for VA-ECMO.

Pressure and flow properties of cannulae for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation II: drainage (venous) cannulae.

The use of extracorporeal life support devices such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults requires cannulation of the patient's vessels with comparatively large diameter cannulae to allow circulation of large volumes of blood (>5 L/min). The cannula diameter and length are the major determinants for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation flow. Manufacturing companies present pressure-flow charts for the cannulae; however, these tests are performed with water. Aims of this study were 1. to investigate the specified pressure-flow charts obtained when using human blood as the circulating medium and 2. to support extracorporeal membrane oxygenation providers with pressure-flow data for correct choice of the cannula to reach an optimal flow with optimal hydrodynamic performance. Eighteen extracorporeal membrane oxygenation drainage cannulae, donated by the manufacturers (n = 6), were studied in a centrifugal pump driven mock loop. Pressure-flow properties and cannula features were described. The results showed that when blood with a hematocrit of 27% was used, the drainage pressure was consistently higher for a given flow (range 10%-350%) than when water was used (data from each respective manufacturer's product information). It is concluded that the information provided by manufacturers in line with regulatory guidelines does not correspond to clinical performance and therefore may not provide the best guidance for clinicians.

Antithrombin During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults: National Survey and Retrospective Analysis.

The impact of antithrombin replacement during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in adults remains unclear. This work comprises a survey, showing that antithrombin is routinely supplemented in many Italian ECMO-Centers, and a retrospective analysis on 66 adults treated with veno-venous ECMO and unfractionated heparin at our Institution. Twenty-four to 72 h after the beginning of ECMO, antithrombin activity was ≤70% in 47/66 subjects and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) ratio was <1.5 in 20/66 subjects. Activated partial thromboplastin time ratio <1.5 was associated not with lower antithrombin activity (61 ± 17 vs. 63 ± 22%; p = 0.983) but with higher circulating level of C-reactive protein (23 ± 8 vs. 11 ± 9 mg/dl; p < 0.001). In 34 subjects who received antithrombin concentrate, antithrombin activity increased (from 54 ± 9 to 84 ± 13%; p < 0.001); the proportion of subjects with aPTT ratio ≥1.5 increased (from 21/34 [62%] to 31/34 [91%]; p = 0.004); heparin dosage remained constant (from 19 ± 7 to 19 ± 6 IU/kg/h; p = 0.543); and C-reactive protein decreased (from 17 ± 10 to 13 ± 9 mg/dl; p = 0.013). Among those with aPTT ratio <1.5, aPTT ratio remained <1.5 in 3 out of 13 subjects. Antithrombin is frequently supplemented during veno-venous ECMO although low antithrombin activity does not constantly impede, and antithrombin replacement does not constantly ensure, reaching the target aPTT ratio. Inflammation possibly affects the individual response to heparin.

Pharmacokinetics and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults: A Literature Review.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a rapidly emerging treatment for respiratory or cardiac failure and is used as a bridge to recovery, transplant, or destination therapy. Adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation also receive significant amounts of pharmacotherapy. Although the body of literature on extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation in general is extensive, only a few publications focus on pharmacokinetic changes related to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults. Understanding pharmacokinetics in adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is important to correctly select and dose medications in this patient population. This article reviews published studies of the effects of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on pharmacokinetics in adults.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Characteristics and Outcomes in Adult Patients With Down Syndrome.

Patients with Down syndrome (DS) may have multiple medical issues that place them at risk for requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in pediatric patients with Down syndrome has been described, but minimal data exist for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use in adults with Down syndrome. The goal of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics and to determine if there were differences between adult extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients with Down syndrome that were alive (aDS) versus those that died (dDS) prior to hospital discharge. Patients with Down syndrome that were 18 years and older registered in the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization registry from 1983 to 2016 were analyzed. Demographics and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation characteristics were recorded. A total of 21 adults with Down syndrome were identified. Incidence of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in adults with Down syndrome was 0.88 per 1000 extracorporeal membrane oxygenation procedures. Hospital mortality was 57.1% (12/21). There were no significant differences between aDS versus dDS for age (24.9 ± 4.8 vs. 28.1 ± 10.2 years), weight (90.7 ± 13.0 vs. 79.1 ± 27.0 kg), gender (4 males vs. 8 males), initial pH (7.18 ± 0.19 vs. 7.27 ± 0.16), or initial pO2 (51.7 ± 13.9 vs. 45.4 ± 19.9), respectively. There were no significant differences between aDS versus dDS in duration of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation run (239 ± 159 h vs. 455 ± 570 h, respectively), ventilator or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation mode, and nitric oxide use. aDS had fewer incidences of mechanical and neurologic complications (41.7% vs. 0.0%, P < 0.05) versus dDS. There were no other significant differences in complication rates between the two groups. Use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the adult population with Down syndrome is significantly less compared to the pediatric population with Down syndrome. Baseline characteristics are not predictive of overall survival. There were minimal differences noted between aDS versus dDS during their extracorporeal membrane oxygenation course. Mortality rates are similar to non-Down syndrome patients placed on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may be a reasonable option for adult patients with Down syndrome requiring intensive care.