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Static ice storage has long been the standard-of-care for lung preservation, although freezing injury limits ischemic time (IT). Controlled hypothermic storage (CHS) at elevated temperature could safely extend IT. This retrospective analysis assesses feasibility and safety of CHS with IT > 15 hours. Three lung transplant (LuTx) centers (April-October 2023) included demographics, storage details, IT, and short-term outcome from 13 LuTx recipients (8 male, 59 years old). Donor lungs were preserved in a portable CHS device at 7 (5-9.3)°C. Indication was overnight bridging and/or long-distance transport. IT of second-implanted lung was 17.3 (15.1-22) hours. LuTx were successful, 4/13 exhibited primary graft dysfunction grade 3 within 72 hours and 0/13 at 72 hours. Post-LuTx mechanical ventilation was 29 (7-442) hours. Intensive care unit stay was 9 (5-28) and hospital stay 30 (16-90) days. Four patients needed postoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). One patient died (day 7) following malpositioning of an ECMO cannula. This multicenter experience demonstrates the possibility of safely extending IT > 15 hours by CHS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the clinical trends, risk factors, and effects of post-transplant stroke and subsequent functional independence on outcomes following orthotopic heart transplantation under the 2018 heart allocation system. The United Network for Organ Sharing registry was queried to identify adult recipients from October 18, 2018 to December 31, 2021. The cohort was stratified into 2 groups with and without post-transplant stroke. The incidence of post-transplant stroke was compared before and after the allocation policy change. Outcomes included post-transplant survival and complications. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify risk factors for post-transplant stroke. Sub-analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of functional independence among recipients with post-transplant stroke. A total of 9,039 recipients were analyzed in this study. The incidence of post-transplant stroke was higher following the policy change (3.8% vs 3.1%, p = 0.017). Thirty-day (81.4% vs 97.7%) and 1-year (66.4% vs 92.5%) survival rates were substantially lower in the stroke cohort (p < 0.001). The stroke cohort had a higher rate of post-transplant renal failure, longer hospital length of stay, and worse functional status. Multivariable analysis identified extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, durable left ventricular assist device, blood type O, and redo heart transplantation as strong predictors of post-transplant stroke. Preserved functional independence considerably improved 30-day (99.2% vs 61.2%) and 1-year (97.7% vs 47.4%) survival rates among the recipients with post-transplant stroke (p < 0.001). There is a higher incidence of post-transplant stroke under the 2018 allocation system, and it is associated with significantly worse post-transplant outcomes. However, post-transplant stroke recipients with preserved functional independence have improved survival, similar to those without post-transplant stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Airway surgery is performed for COVID-19 patients who require long-term tracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. Tracheostomy sometimes causes postoperative complications represented by bleeding at a relatively high rate in COVID-19 patients. As an alternative surgical procedure to tracheostomy, cricotracheostomy may reduce these complications, but few studies have examined its safety. Data were retrospectively collected for sixteen COVID-19 patients (11 underwent tracheostomy, 5 underwent modified cricotracheostomy). In addition to patients' backgrounds and blood test data, the frequency of complications and additional care required for postoperative complications were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted by the univariate analysis of Fischer analysis and Mann–Whitney U test. Five cases experienced postoperative bleeding, four cases experienced peristomal infection, and one case experienced subcutaneous emphysema in the tracheostomy patients. These complications were not observed in the cricotracheostomy patients. The number of additional cares for postoperative complications was significantly lower in cricotracheostomy than in tracheostomy patients (p < 0.05). Modified cricotracheostomy could be a safe procedure in airway surgery for patients with COVID-19 from the point of fewer postoperative complications and additional care. It might be necessary to select the cricotracheostomy depending on patients' background to reduce postoperative complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)-associated compartment syndrome (CS) is a rare complication seen in critically ill patients. The epidemiology and management of ECMO-associated CS in the upper extremity (UE) and lower extremity (LE) are poorly defined in the literature. We sought to determine the epidemiology and characterize treatment and outcomes of UE-CS compared to LE-CS in the setting of ECMO therapy. Adult patients undergoing ECMO therapy were identified in the Nationwide Readmission Database (2015-2019) and followed up for 6 months. Patients were stratified based on UE-CS versus LE-CS. Primary outcomes were fasciotomy and amputation. All-cause mortality and length of stay were also collected. Risk-adjusted modeling was performed to determine patient- and hospital-level factors associated with differences in the management UE-CS versus LE-CS while controlling for confounders. A total of 24,047 cases of ECMO during hospitalization were identified of which 598 were complicated by CS. Of this population, 507 cases were in the LE (84.8%), while 91 (15.5%) were in the UE. After multivariate analysis, UE-CS patients were less likely to undergo fasciotomy (50.5 vs. 70.9; P = 0.013) and were less likely to undergo amputation of the extremity (3.3 vs. 23.7; P = 0.001) although there was no difference in mortality (58.4 vs. 65.4; P = 0.330). ECMO patients with CS experience high mortality and morbidity. UE-CS has lower rates of fasciotomy and amputations, compared to LE-CS, with similar mortality. Further studies are needed to elucidate the reasons for these differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As the pandemic progressed, the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for COVID‐19‐related acute respiratory distress syndrome increased, and patient triage and transfer to ECMO centers became important to optimize patient outcomes. Our objectives are to identify predictors of patient transfer for veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V‐V ECMO) evaluation as well as to describe the outcomes of accepted patients. Methods: This is a single‐center, retrospective analysis of V‐V ECMO transfer requests for adult patients with known or suspected COVID‐19 and respiratory failure from March 2020 until March 2021. Data were collected prospectively during the triage process for transfer requests as part of clinical patient care at our institution. Results: Of 341 referred patients, 112 (33%) were accepted for transfer to our facility, whereas 229 (67%) patients were declined for transfer. The Classification and Regression Tree analysis showed that patients' high pressure during airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) and age were the variables most significantly associated with the decision to accept or decline patients for transfer. Conclusions: Our triage process enabled one‐third of referred patients to be transferred for evaluation, with nearly 70% of those patients ultimately receiving ECMO support. High ventilator settings on APRV and young age were associated with acceptance for transfer. Accepted patients also had a higher incidence of adjunctive therapies (proning and paralysis) prior to transfer request, less cardiac or renal dysfunction, and a shorter duration of mechanical ventilation. Further research is warranted to investigate the outcomes of nontransferred patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: For the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to continue to perform complex cardiothoracic surgery, there must be an established pathway for providing urgent/emergent extracorporeal life support (ECLS). Partnership with a nearby tertiary care center with such expertise may be the most resource‐efficient way to provide ECLS services to patients in post‐cardiotomy cardiogenic shock or respiratory failure. The goal of this project was to assess the efficiency, safety, and outcomes of surgical patients who required transfer for perioperative ECLS from a single stand‐alone Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) to a separate ECLS center. Methods: Cohort consisted of all cardiothoracic surgery patients who experienced cardiogenic shock or refractory respiratory failure at the local VAMC requiring urgent or emergent institution of ECLS between 2019 and 2022. The primary outcomes are the safety and timeliness of transport. Results: Mean time from the initial shock call to arrival at the ECLS center was 2.8 h. There were no complications during transfer. Six patients (86%) survived to decannulation. Conclusion: These results suggest that complex cardiothoracic surgery can be performed within the VHA system and when there is an indication for ECLS, those services can be safely and effectively provided at an affiliated, properly equipped center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate EEG monitoring during neonatal ECMO and to identify any correlations between seizure detection to abnormal neuroimaging. Eight-year, service evaluation of neonates who received at least one continuous EEG (cEEG) whilst on ECMO at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Pearson's chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to assess clinical and EEG variables association with seizures and neuroimaging findings. Fifty-seven neonates were studied; 57 cEEG recordings were reviewed. The incidence of seizures was 33% (19/57); of these 74% (14/19) were electrographic-only. The incidence of status epilepticus was 42%, (8/19 with 6 neonates having electrographic-only status and 2 electro-clinical status. Seizures were detected within an hour of recording in 84%, (16/19). The overall mortality rate was 39% (22/57). Seizure detection was strongly associated with female gender (OR 4.8, 95% CI: 1.1–20.4, p = 0.03), abnormal EEG background activity (OR 2.8, 95% CI: 1.1–7.4, p = 0.03) and abnormal EEG focal features (OR 23.6, 95% CI: 5.4–103.9, p = 0.001). There was a strong association between the presence of seizures and abnormal neuroimaging findings (OR 10.9, 95% CI: 2.8–41.9, p = 0.001). Neonates were highly likely to have abnormal neuroimaging findings in the presence of severely abnormal background EEG (OR 9.5, 95% CI 1.7–52.02, p = 0.01) and focal EEG abnormalities (OR 6.35, 95% CI 1.97–20.5, p = 0.002) Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of cEEG in neonates undergoing ECMO. An association between seizure detection and abnormal neuroimaging findings was described. What is Known: • Patients on ECMO are at a higher risk of seiures. • Continuous EEG monitoring is recommended by the ACNS for high risk and ECMO patients. What is New: • In this cohort, neonates with sezirues were 11 times more likely of having abnromal neuroimaging findings. • Neonates with burst suppressed or suppressed EEG background were 9.5 times more likely to have abnormal neuroimaging findings. What does this study add? • This study reports a 33% incidence of neonatal seizures during ECMO. • Neonates with seizures were 11 times more likely to have an abnormal brain scan. • The study captures the real-time approach of EEG monitoring. • Recommended cEEG monitoring should last at least 24 h for ECMO patients. • This is the first study to assess this in neonates only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a rare but fatal complication after pneumonectomy. When a BPF occurs late (weeks to years postoperatively), direct resealing of the bronchial stump through the primary thoracic approach is challenging due to the risks of fibrothorax and injury to the pulmonary artery stump, and the surgical outcome is generally poor. Here, we report a case of late left BPF following left pneumonectomy successfully treated using a right thoracic approach assisted by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Case presentation: We report the case of a 57-year-old male patient who underwent left lower and left upper lobectomy, respectively, for heterochronic double primary lung cancer. A left BPF was diagnosed at the 22nd month postoperatively, and conservative treatment was ineffective. Finally, the left BPF was cured by minimally invasive BPF closure surgery via the right thoracic approach with the support of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO). Conclusions: Advanced BPF following left pneumonectomy can be achieved with an individualized treatment plan, and the right thoracic approach assisted by ECMO is a relatively simple and effective method, which could be considered as an additional treatment option for similar patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative pneumonia (POP) is the most prevalent of all nosocomial infections in patients who underwent cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to identify independent risk factors for pneumonia after cardiac surgery, from which we constructed a nomogram for prediction. Methods: The clinical data of patients admitted to the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery of Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from October 2020 to September 2021 who underwent cardiac surgery were retrospectively analyzed, and the patients were divided into two groups according to whether they had POP: POP group (n=105) and non-POP group (n=1083). Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative indicators were collected and analyzed. Logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for POP in patients who underwent cardiac surgery. We constructed a nomogram based on these independent risk factors. Model discrimination was assessed via area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and calibration was assessed via calibration plot. Results: A total of 105 events occurred in the 1188 cases. Age (>55 years) (OR: 1.83, P=0.0225), preoperative malnutrition (OR: 3.71, P<0.0001), diabetes mellitus(OR: 2.33, P=0.0036), CPB time (Cardiopulmonary Bypass Time) > 135 min (OR: 2.80, P<0.0001), moderate to severe ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome)(OR: 1.79, P=0.0148), use of ECMO or IABP or CRRT (ECMO: Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation; IABP: Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump; CRRT: Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy)(OR: 2.60, P=0.0057) and MV(Mechanical Ventilation)> 20 hours (OR: 3.11, P<0.0001) were independent risk factors for POP. Based on those independent risk factors, we constructed a simple nomogram with an AUC of 0.82. Calibration plots showed good agreement between predicted probabilities and actual probabilities. Conclusion: We constructed a facile nomogram for predicting pneumonia after cardiac surgery with good discrimination and calibration. The model has excellent clinical applicability and can be used to identify and adjust modifiable risk factors to reduce the incidence of POP as well as patient mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Von Willebrand factor (vWF) plays a crucial role in hemostasis, acting as a key factor for platelet adhesion/aggregation and as a transport protein for coagulation factor VIII. vWF is secreted as a giant multimer, and it undergoes shear stress-dependent cleavage by a specific metalloproteinase in plasma. Among vWF multimers, high-molecular-weight (large) multimers are essential for hemostasis. Acquired von Willebrand syndrome, linked to various conditions, is a hemostatic disorder due to reduced vWF activity. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), utilized recently for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients, generates high shear stress inside the pump. This stress may induce a conformational change in vWF, enhancing cleavage by a specific metalloproteinase and thereby reducing vWF activity. However, no study has investigated the effects of ECMO on vWF-related factors in patients receiving or not receiving ECMO. This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between ECMO treatment and acquired von Willebrand syndrome-related factors in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Methods: This study included patients with cardiogenic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest admitted to our hospital. The patients were categorized into two groups (ECMO and non-ECMO) based on the presence or absence of ECMO treatment. Plasma samples were collected from patients admitted to the emergency department (days 0–4). The vWF antigen (vWF: Ag), vWF ristocetin cofactor activity (vWF: RCo), and factor VIII activity were measured. Additionally, a large multimer of vWF was evaluated through vWF multimer analysis, utilizing western blotting to probe vWF under non-reducing conditions. Results: The ECMO and non-ECMO groups included 10 and 22 patients, respectively. The median ECMO treatment in the ECMO group was 64.6 h. No differences in vWF: Ag or factor VIII activity were observed between the two groups during the observation period. However, the ECMO group exhibited a decrease in large vWF multimers and vWF: RCo during ECMO. Strong correlations were observed between vWF: RCo and vWF: Ag in both groups, although the relationships were significantly different between the two groups. Conclusions: ECMO treatment in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest resulted in the loss of large vWF multimers and decreased vWF activity. Hence, decreased vWF activity should be considered as a cause of bleeding during ECMO management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe acute lung failure (ALF) often necessitates veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO), where identifying predictors of weaning success and mortality remains crucial yet challenging. The study aims to identify predictors of weaning success and mortality in adults undergoing VV-ECMO for severe ALF, a gap in current clinical knowledge. Methods and analysis: PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials will be searched for cohort studies examining the predictive factors of successful weaning and mortality in adult patients on VV-ECMO due to severe ALF. Risk of bias assessment will be conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for each included study. The primary outcomes will be successful weaning from VV-ECMO and all-cause mortality. Between-study heterogeneity will be evaluated using the I2 statistic. Sensitivity, subgroup, and meta-regression analyses will be performed to ascertain potential sources of heterogeneity and assess the robustness of our results. We will use the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) tool to recommend the level of evidence. Discussion: This study seeks to provide clinically significant insights into predictors for weaning and mortality during VV-ECMO treatment for ALF, aiming to support clinical decisions and potentially influence health policy, thereby improving patient outcomes. Ethics and dissemination: Given the absence of direct engagement with human subjects or access to personal medical records, ethical approval for this study is deemed unnecessary. The study findings will be shared at a scientific conference either at the global or national level. Alternatively, the results will be presented for publication in a rigorously peer-reviewed journal regarding critical care medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) presents a significant challenge in critical care settings, characterized by compromised gas exchange, necessitating in the most severe cases interventions such as veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (vv-ECMO) when conventional therapies fail. Critically ill ARDS patients on vv-ECMO may experience several complications. Limited data exist comparing complication rates between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 ARDS patients undergoing vv-ECMO. This retrospective observational study aimed to assess and compare complications in these patient cohorts. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of all patients receiving vv-ECMO for ARDS between March 2020 and March 2022. We recorded the baseline characteristics, the disease course and complication (barotrauma, bleeding, thrombosis) before and after ECMO cannulation, and clinical outcomes (mechanical ventilation and ECMO duration, intensive care unit, and hospital lengths of stay and mortalities). Data were compared between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients. In addition, we compared survived and deceased patients. Results: Sixty-four patients were included. COVID-19 patients (n = 25) showed higher rates of pneumothorax (28% vs. 8%, p = 0.039) with subcutaneous emphysema (24% vs. 5%, p = 0.048) and longer non-invasive ventilation duration before vv-ECMO cannulation (2 [1; 4] vs. 0 [0; 1] days, p = <0.001), compared to non-COVID-19 patients (n = 39). However, complication rates and clinical outcomes post-vv-ECMO were similar between groups. Survival analysis revealed no significant differences in pre-vv-ECMO complications, but non-surviving patients had a trend toward higher complication rates and more pleural effusions post-vv-ECMO. Conclusions: COVID-19 patients on vv-ECMO exhibit higher pneumothorax rates with subcutaneous emphysema pre-cannulation; post-cannulation complications are comparable to non-COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To optimize right ventricular–pulmonary coupling during veno-arterial (VA) ECMO weaning, inotropes, vasopressors and/or vasodilators are used to change right ventricular (RV) function (contractility) and pulmonary artery (PA) elastance (afterload). RV–PA coupling is the ratio between right ventricular contractility and pulmonary vascular elastance and as such, is a measure of optimized crosstalk between ventricle and vasculature. Little is known about the physiology of RV–PA coupling during VA ECMO. This study describes adaptive mechanisms for maintaining RV–PA coupling resulting from changing pre- and afterload conditions in VA ECMO. Methods: In 13 pigs, extracorporeal flow was reduced from 4 to 1 L/min at baseline and increased afterload (pulmonary embolism and hypoxic vasoconstriction). Pressure and flow signals estimated right ventricular end-systolic elastance and pulmonary arterial elastance. Linear mixed-effect models estimated the association between conditions and elastance. Results: At no extracorporeal flow, end-systolic elastance increased from 0.83 [0.66 to 1.00] mmHg/mL at baseline by 0.44 [0.29 to 0.59] mmHg/mL with pulmonary embolism and by 1.36 [1.21 to 1.51] mmHg/mL with hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (p < 0.001). Pulmonary arterial elastance increased from 0.39 [0.30 to 0.49] mmHg/mL at baseline by 0.36 [0.27 to 0.44] mmHg/mL with pulmonary embolism and by 0.75 [0.67 to 0.84] mmHg/mL with hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (p < 0.001). Coupling remained unchanged (2.1 [1.8 to 2.3] mmHg/mL at baseline; − 0.1 [− 0.3 to 0.1] mmHg/mL increase with pulmonary embolism; − 0.2 [− 0.4 to 0.0] mmHg/mL with hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction, p > 0.05). Extracorporeal flow did not change coupling (0.0 [− 0.0 to 0.1] per change of 1 L/min, p > 0.05). End-diastolic volume increased with decreasing extracorporeal flow (7.2 [6.6 to 7.8] ml change per 1 L/min, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The right ventricle dilates with increased preload and increases its contractility in response to afterload changes to maintain ventricular–arterial coupling during VA extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this two-center prospective cohort study of children on ECMO, we assessed a panel of plasma brain injury biomarkers using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to evaluate their interplay and association with outcomes. Biomarker concentrations were measured daily for the first 3 days of ECMO support in 95 participants. Unfavorable composite outcome was defined as in-hospital mortality or discharge Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category > 2 with decline ≥ 1 point from baseline. EFA grouped 11 biomarkers into three factors. Factor 1 comprised markers of cellular brain injury (NSE, BDNF, GFAP, S100β, MCP1, VILIP-1, neurogranin); Factor 2 comprised markers related to vascular processes (vWF, PDGFRβ, NPTX1); and Factor 3 comprised the BDNF/MMP-9 cellular pathway. Multivariable logistic models demonstrated that higher Factor 1 and 2 scores were associated with higher odds of unfavorable outcome (adjusted OR 2.88 [1.61, 5.66] and 1.89 [1.12, 3.43], respectively). Conversely, higher Factor 3 scores were associated with lower odds of unfavorable outcome (adjusted OR 0.54 [0.31, 0.88]), which is biologically plausible given the role of BDNF in neuroplasticity. Application of EFA on plasma brain injury biomarkers in children on ECMO yielded grouping of biomarkers into three factors that were significantly associated with unfavorable outcome, suggesting future potential as prognostic instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional study, conducted between January 2020 and July 2023, aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) among parents with children undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) treatment. Out of 201 valid questionnaires collected, the median knowledge score was 3.00, the mean attitude score was 27.00 ± 3.20, and the mean PTSS score was 3.50 ± 1.54. Logistic regression identified associations between PTSS and parents with lower education levels, particularly junior high school and high school/technical secondary school education, as well as those occupied as housewives. Structural equation modeling highlighted direct effects, such as the impact of residence on education, education on employment status, and associations between knowledge, attitude, PTSS, employment status, monthly income, and parental demographics. The findings indicated inadequate knowledge and suboptimal attitudes among parents, especially those with lower education levels, emphasizing the need for educational resources. Furthermore, addressing parental PTSS through psychosocial support and screening was deemed essential, providing valuable insights for tailored interventions in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Germany, a comprehensive reimbursement policy for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) results in the highest per capita use worldwide, although benefits remain controversial. Public ECMO data is unstructured and poorly accessible to healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers. In addition, there are no uniform policies for ECMO allocation which confronts medical personnel with ethical considerations during health crises such as respiratory virus outbreaks.Retrospective information on adult and pediatric ECMO support performed in German hospitals was extracted from publicly available reimbursement data and hospital quality reports and processed to create the web-based ECMO Dashboard built on Open-Source software. Patient-level and hospital-level data were merged resulting in a solid base for ECMO use analysis and ECMO demand forecasting with high spatial granularity at the level of 413 county and city districts in Germany.The ECMO Dashboard (https://www.ecmo-dash.de/), an innovative visual platform, presents the retrospective utilization patterns of ECMO support in Germany. It features interactive maps, comprehensive charts, and tables, providing insights at the hospital, district, and national levels. This tool also highlights the high prevalence of ECMO support in Germany and emphasizes districts with ECMO surplus – where patients from other regions are treated, or deficit – origins from which ECMO patients are transferred to other regions. The dashboard will evolve iteratively to provide stakeholders with vital information for informed and transparent resource allocation and decision-making.Accessible public routine data could support evidence-informed, forward-looking resource management policies, which are urgently needed to increase the quality and prepare the critical care infrastructure for future pandemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a rescue therapy in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) secondary to COVID-19. While bleeding and thrombosis complicate ECMO, these events may also occur secondary to COVID-19. Data regarding bleeding and thrombotic events in COVID-19 patients on ECMO are sparse. Methods: Using the COVID-19 Critical Care Consortium database, we conducted a retrospective analysis on adult patients with severe COVID-19 requiring ECMO, including centers globally from 01/2020 to 06/2022, to determine the risk of ICU mortality associated with the occurrence of bleeding and clotting disorders. Results: Among 1,248 COVID-19 patients receiving ECMO support in the registry, coagulation complications were reported in 469 cases (38%), among whom 252 (54%) experienced hemorrhagic complications, 165 (35%) thrombotic complications, and 52 (11%) both. The hazard ratio (HR) for Intensive Care Unit mortality was higher in those with hemorrhagic-only complications than those with neither complication (adjusted HR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.28–1.99, p < 0.001). Death was reported in 617 of the 1248 (49.4%) with multiorgan failure (n = 257 of 617 [42%]), followed by respiratory failure (n = 130 of 617 [21%]) and septic shock [n = 55 of 617 (8.9%)] the leading causes. Conclusions: Coagulation disorders are frequent in COVID-19 ARDS patients receiving ECMO. Bleeding events contribute substantially to mortality in this cohort. However, this risk may be lower than previously reported in single-nation studies or early case reports. Trial registration ACTRN12620000421932 (https://covid19.cochrane.org/studies/crs-13513201). Clinical Perspective: Coagulation disorders such as thrombotic or hemorrhagic events are frequent in COVID-19 ARDS patients receiving ECMO. While older age, pre-existing cardiac disease, and diabetes were independently associated with bleeding, prone positioning and a longer time from admission to ECMO were associated with a higher percentage of thrombotic events. A longer duration of ECMO was linked to an increased rate of combined hemorrhagic and thrombotic events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrombus formation in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) remains a major concern as it can lead to fatal outcomes. To the best of our knowledge, there is no standard non-invasive method for quantitatively measuring thrombi. This study's purpose was to verify thrombus detection in an ECMO circuit using novel, non-invasive ultrasonic sensors in real-time, utilizing the fact that the ultrasonic velocity in a thrombus is known to be higher than that in the blood. Ultrasonic sensors with a customized chamber, an ultrasonic pulse-receiver, and a digital storage oscilloscope (DSO) were used to set up the measuring unit. The customized chamber was connected to an ECMO circuit primed with porcine blood. Thrombi formed from static porcine blood were placed in the circuit and ultrasonic signals were extracted from the oscilloscope at various ECMO flow rates of 1–4 L/min. The ultrasonic signal changes were successfully detected at each flow rate on the DSO. The ultrasonic pulse signal shifted leftward when a thrombus passed between the two ultrasonic sensors and was easily detected on the DSO screen. This novel real-time non-invasive thrombus detection method may enable the early detection of floating thrombi in the ECMO system and early management of ECMO thrombi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Veno-arterial (V-A) and Veno-venous (V-V) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support is increasingly utilized for acute cardiogenic shock and/or respiratory failure. Echocardiography and point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) play a critical role in the selection and management of these critically ill patients, however, there are limited guidelines regarding their application. This comprehensive review describes current and potential application of echocardiography and POCUS for pre-ECMO assessment and patient selection, cannulation guidance with emphasis on dual-lumen configurations, diagnosis of ECMO complications and trouble-shooting of cannula malposition, diagnosis of common cardiac or pulmonary pathologies, and assessment of ECMO weaning appropriateness including identification of the aortic mixing point in V-A ECMO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced respiratory monitoring encompasses a diverse range of mini- or noninvasive tools used to evaluate various aspects of respiratory function in patients experiencing acute respiratory failure, including those requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. Among these techniques, key modalities include esophageal pressure measurement (including derived pressures), lung and respiratory muscle ultrasounds, electrical impedance tomography, the monitoring of diaphragm electrical activity, and assessment of flow index. These tools play a critical role in assessing essential parameters such as lung recruitment and overdistention, lung aeration and morphology, ventilation/perfusion distribution, inspiratory effort, respiratory drive, respiratory muscle contraction, and patient–ventilator synchrony. In contrast to conventional methods, advanced respiratory monitoring offers a deeper understanding of pathological changes in lung aeration caused by underlying diseases. Moreover, it allows for meticulous tracking of responses to therapeutic interventions, aiding in the development of personalized respiratory support strategies aimed at preserving lung function and respiratory muscle integrity. The integration of advanced respiratory monitoring represents a significant advancement in the clinical management of acute respiratory failure. It serves as a cornerstone in scenarios where treatment strategies rely on tailored approaches, empowering clinicians to make informed decisions about intervention selection and adjustment. By enabling real-time assessment and modification of respiratory support, advanced monitoring not only optimizes care for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome but also contributes to improved outcomes and enhanced patient safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Swiss Ticino regional pulmonary embolism response team (PERT) features direct access to various pharmacomechanical PE management options within a hub/spoke system, by integrating evidence, guidelines' recommendations and personal experiences. This system involves a collaborative management of patients among the hospitals distributed throughout the region, which refer selected intermediate–high or high PE patients to a second-level hub center, located in Lugano at Cardiocentro Ticino, belonging to the Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC). The hub provides 24/7 catheterization laboratory activation for catheter-based intervention (CBI), surgical embolectomy and/or a mechanical support system such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The hub hosts PE patients after percutaneous or surgical intervention in two intensive care units, one specialized in cardiovascular anesthesiology, to be preferred for patients without relevant comorbidities or with hemodynamic instability and one specialized in post-surgical care, to be preferred for PE patients after trauma or surgery or with relevant comorbidities, such as cancer. From April 2022 to December 2023, a total of 65 patients were referred to the hub for CBI, including ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis (USAT) or large-bore aspiration intervention. No patient received ECMO or underwent surgical embolectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Transsubclavian venous implantation of the Aveir leadless cardiac pacemaker (LCP) has not been previously reported. Methods and Results: Three cases of transsubclavian implantation of the Aveir LCP are reported. Two cases were postbilateral orthotopic lung transplant, without appropriate femoral or jugular access due to recent ECMO cannulation and jugular central venous catheters. In one case, there was strong patient preference for same‐ day discharge. Stability testing confirmed adequate fixation and electrical testing confirmed stable parameters in all cases. All patients tolerated the procedure well without significant immediate complications. Conclusions: We demonstrate the feasibility of transsubclavian implantation of the Aveir LCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective We describe the survival and neurodevelopmental outcomes of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) patients who received single and repeat extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Study Design This is a retrospective single-center study comparing neurodevelopmental outcomes in CDH patients who were managed without ECMO, who received one ECMO run, and those who received two ECMO runs. Neurodevelopmental testing was performed utilizing the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III. Results There were 68 neonates identified with CDH from January 2011 to June 2019: 30 did not receive ECMO, 29 received single ECMO run, and 9 received two ECMO runs. Survival of ECMO patients was 50%, with 48% of single run and 57% of repeat run patients surviving to discharge. Second-run ECMO patients had increased median ventilator days (60 vs. 33, p = 0.04) and increased median length of hospital stay (159 vs. 89, p = 0.01). Neurodevelopmental testing via Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III was performed on 74% of survivors at the mean age of 24 months. CDH neonates who underwent ECMO (single or repeat runs) were more likely to have lower cognitive, language, and motor composite scores as compared with CDH neonates who had not required ECMO. Motor composite scores were significantly lower in repeat ECMO run neonates as compared with single ECMO run (72 + 6 vs. 85 + 4, p = 0.0003), but there were no further deficits noted in language or cognitive domains. Conclusion Survival after a second ECMO run in CDH is possible, although with increased ventilator days and increased length of hospitalization. We also find further deficits in motor outcomes in the second-run ECMO group compared with single-run ECMO. Our findings do not preclude a second ECMO run, but rather inform our counseling to families and reinforce the need for close neurodevelopmental follow-up for these patients. Key Points A repeat ECMO run is associated with further neurodevelopmental deficits in the motor domain. Survival is possible after repeat ECMO and is associated with increased length of hospital stay. Neurodevelopmental follow-up is critical for all CDH ECMO patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Noise pollution in intensive care units is a relevant problem, associated with psychological and physiological consequences for patients and healthcare staff. Sources of noise pollution include medical equipment, alarms, communication tools, staff activities, and conversations. Aims: To explore the cumulative effects of noise caused by an increasing number and type of medical devices in an intensive care setting on simulated patients with increasing clinical complexity. Secondly, to measure medical device alarms and nursing activities' sound levels, evaluating their role as potentially disruptive noises. Study Design: Observational simulation study (reported according to the STROBE checklist). Using an electronic sound meter, the sound levels of an intensive care room in seven simulated clinical scenarios were measured on a single day (09 March 2022), each featuring increasing numbers of devices, hypothetically corresponding to augmented patients' clinical complexity. Secondly, noise levels of medical device alarms and specific nursing activities performed at a distance of three meters from the sound meter were analysed. Results: The empty room's mean baseline noise level was 37.8 (±0.7) dBA; among the simulated scenarios, noise ranged between 45.3 (±1.0) and 53.5 (±1.5) dBA. Alarms ranged between 76.4 and 81.3 dBA, while nursing tasks (closing a drawer, opening a saline bag overwrap, or sterile packages) and speaking were all over 80 dBA. The noisiest activity was opening a sterile package (98 dBA). Conclusion: An increased number of medical devices, an expression of patients' higher clinical complexity, is not a significant cause of increased noise. Some specific nursing activities and conversations produce higher noise levels than medical devices and alarms. This study's findings suggest further research to assess the relationships between these factors and to encourage adequate noise reduction strategies. Relevance to Clinical Practice: Excessive noise level in the intensive care unit is a clinical issue that negatively affects patients' and healthcare providers' well‐being. The increase in baseline room noise from medical devices is generally limited. Typical nursing tasks and conversations produce higher noise levels than medical devices and alarms. These findings could be helpful to raise awareness among healthcare professionals to recognize noise sources. The noisiest components of the environment can be modified by staff behaviour, promoting noise reduction strategies and improving the critical care environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a leading cause of poison-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. By binding to hemoglobin and other heme-containing proteins, CO reduces oxygen delivery and produces tissue damage. Prompt treatment of CO-poisoned patients is necessary to prevent acute and long-term complications. Oxygen therapy is the only available treatment. Visible light has been shown to selectively dissociate CO from hemoglobin with high efficiency without affecting oxygen affinity. Pulmonary phototherapy has been shown to accelerate the rate of CO elimination in CO poisoned mice and rats when applied directly to the lungs or via intra-esophageal or intra-pleural optical fibers. The extracorporeal removal of CO using a membrane oxygenator with optimal characteristic for blood exposure to light has been shown to accelerate the rate of CO illumination in rats with or without lung injury and in pigs. The development of non-invasive techniques to apply pulmonary phototherapy and the development of a compact, highly efficient membrane oxygenator for the extracorporeal removal of CO in humans may provide a significant advance in the treatment of CO poisoning. • Visible light selectively dissociates CO from hemoglobin without affecting oxygen binding. • Pulmonary phototherapy has been shown to accelerate the rate of CO elimination in mice and rats. • The extracorporeal removal of CO using phototherapy (ECCOR-P) accelerates CO elimination in small and large animals. • Pulmonary phototherapy and ECCOR-P development may provide a significant advance for treating CO poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several patients requiring biventricular mechanical circulatory support in the acute setting will not be candidates for less invasive advanced heart failure therapies not requiring median sternotomy. Temporary biventricular assist device may provide reliable short term support bridging patients to recovery or further advanced treatments. However, this exposes patients to increased risk of reoperation due to bleeding and further exposure to blood products. This article outlines the practical details necessary in performing this technique while minimizing potential complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Massive pulmonary embolism (MPE) is a rare but highly fatal condition. Our study's objective was to evaluate the association between advanced interventions and survival among patients with MPE treated with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). Methods: This is a retrospective review of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) registry data. We included adult patients with MPE who were treated with VA-ECMO during 2010–2020. Our Primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge; secondary outcomes were ECMO duration among survivors and rates of ECMO-related complications. Clinical variables were compared using the Pearson chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis H tests. Results: We included 802 patients; 80 (10%) received SPE and 18 (2%) received CDT. Overall, 426 (53%) survived to discharge; survival was not significantly different among those treated with SPE or CDT on VA-ECMO (70%) versus VA-ECMO alone (52%) or SPE or CDT before VA-ECMO (52%). Multivariable regression found a trend towards increased survival among those treated with SPE or CDT while on ECMO (AOR 1.8, 95% CI 0.9–3.6), but no significant correlation. There was no association between advanced interventions and ECMO duration among survivors, or rates of ECMO-related complications. Conclusion: Our study found no difference in survival in patients with MPE who received advanced interventions prior to ECMO, and a slight non-significant benefit in those who received advanced interventions while on ECMO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pneumothorax is associated with poor prognosis in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We sought to examine the outcomes of patients who are supported on veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) and develop a pneumothorax. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all adult VV ECMO patients supported for ARDS between 8/2014-7/2020 at our institution, excluding patients with recent lung resection and trauma. Clinical outcomes were compared between patients with a pneumothorax to those without a pneumothorax. Results: Two hundred eighty patients with ARDS on VV ECMO were analyzed. Of those, 213 did not have a pneumothorax and 67 did. Patients with a pneumothorax had a longer duration of ECMO support (30 days [16–55] versus 12 [7–22], p < 0.001) and hospital length of stay (51 days [27–93] versus 29 [18–49], p < 0.001), and lower survival-to-discharge (58.2% versus 77.5%, p = 0.002) compared to patients without a pneumothorax. Controlling for age, BMI, sex, RESP score and pre-ECMO ventilator days, the odds ratio of survival-to-discharge was 0.41 (95% CI 0.22–0.78) in patients with a pneumothorax compared to those without. There was a lower incidence of significant bleeding when chest tubes were placed by proceduralist services (2.4% versus 16.2%, p = 0.03). Removal of the chest tube prior to ECMO decannulation compared to removal after decannulation was associated with need for replacement (14.3% versus 0%, p = 0.01). Conclusion: Patients who develop a pneumothorax and are supported with VV ECMO for ARDS have longer duration on ECMO and decreased survival. Further studies are needed to assess risk factors for development of pneumothorax in this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) as a bridge to cardiac transplantation is considered a high risk support strategy in the paediatric population. Methods: We describe the case of a 12 year old boy who required V-A ECMO support for rapidly deteriorating cardiomyopathy and developed a massive pulmonary embolus (PE) peri-cannulation. Subsequent investigations were also positive for heparin induced thrombocytopenia. Results: We elected to treat the PE with ultrasound accelerated catheter directed thrombolysis using the advantages of this minimally invasive targeted method to try and resolve the PE and avoid a cerebral haemorrhage, both of which would have taken the patient off the urgent transplant list. Conclusion: The PE resolved in 24 h and he went on to receive a cardiac transplant and have a favourable outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cases of myocarditis after COVID-19 messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines administration have been reported. Although the majority follow a mild course, fulminant presentations may occur. In these cases, cardiopulmonary support with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) may be needed. Results: We present two cases supported with V-A ECMO for refractory cardiogenic shock due to myocarditis secondary to a mRNA SARS-CoV2 vaccine. One of the cases was admitted for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. In both, a peripheral V-A ECMO was implanted in the cath lab using the Seldinger technique. An intra-aortic balloon pump was needed in one case for left ventricle unloading. Support could be successfully withdrawn in a mean of five days. No major bleeding or thrombosis complications occurred. Whereas an endomyocardial biopsy was performed in both, a definite microscopic diagnosis just could be reached in one of them. Treatment was the same, using 1000mg of methylprednisolone/day for three days. A cardiac magnetic resonance was performed ten days after admission, showing a significant improvement of the left ventricular ejection fraction and diffuse oedema and subepicardial contrast intake in different segments. Both cases were discharged fully recovered, with CPC 1. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccine-associated fulminant myocarditis has a high morbidity and mortality but presents a high potential for recovery. V-A ECMO should be established in cases with refractory cardiogenic shock during the acute phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The organization of primary Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) transport is highly variable. Methods: To present the experience of the first mobile pediatric ECMO program in Spain, we designed a prospective descriptive study of all primary neonatal and pediatric (0–16 years) ECMO transports carried out over 10 years. The main variables recorded include demographic information, patient background, clinical data, ECMO indications, adverse events, and main outcomes. Results: 39 primary ECMO transports were carried out with a 66.7% survival to hospital discharge. The median age was 1.24 months[IQR: 0.09–96]. Cannulation was mostly peripheral venoarterial (33/39). The mean response time from the call from the sending center to the departure of the ECMO team was 4 h[2.2–8]. The median inotropic score at the time of cannulation was 70[17.2–206.5], with a median oxygenation index of 40.5[29–65]. In 10% of the cases, ECMO-CPR was performed. Adverse events occurred in 56.4%, mostly related to the means of transport (40% overall). On arrival at the ECMO center, 44% of the patients underwent interventions. The median PICU stay was 20.5 days[11–32]. 5 patients developed neurological sequels. Statistically significant differences between survivors and deceased patients were not found. Conclusions: A good survival rate, with a low prevalence of serious adverse events, suggests a clear benefit of primary ECMO transport when conventional therapeutic measures are exhausted and the patient is too unstable to undergo conventional transport. A nationwide primary ECMO-transport program must therefore be offered to all patients regardless of their location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) is recommended for the support of patients with severe COVID-19 associated severe respiratory failure (SRF). We report the characteristics and outcome of COVID-19 patients supported with V-V ECMO in a Hungarian centre. Methods: We retrospectively collected data on all patients admitted with proven SARS CoV-2 infection who received V-V ECMO support between March 2021 and May 2022. Results: Eighteen patients were placed on ECMO during this period, (5 women, age (mean ± SD) 44 ± 10 years, APACHE II score (median (interquartile range)) 12 (10–14.5)). Before ECMO support, they had been hospitalised for 6 (4–11) days. Fifteen patients received noninvasive ventilation for 4 (2–8) days, two patients had high flow nasal oxygen therapy, for one day each. They had already been intubated for 2.5 (1–6) days. Prone position was applied in 15 cases. On the day before ECMO initiation the Lung Injury Score was 3.25 (3–3.26), the PaO2/FiO2 ratio was 71 ± 19 mmHg. The duration of V-V ECMO support was 26 ± 20 days, and the longest run lasted 70 days. Patients were mechanically ventilated for 34 ± 23 days. The intensive care unit (ICU) and the hospital length of stay were 40 ± 28 days and 45 ± 31 days, respectively. Eleven patients were successfully weaned from ECMO. The ICU survival rate was 56%, the in-hospital survival was 50%. All patients who were discharged from hospital reported a good health-related quality of life Rankin score (0–2) at the 5–16 months follow-up. Conclusions: During the last three waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, we achieved a 56% ICU and a 50% hospital survival rate at our low volume centre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background : Physical therapy (PT) utilization in patients requiring mechanical circulatory support (MCS) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been reported; however, little is known about intensive rehabilitation and associated outcomes in patients requiring extended complex MCS and/or ECMO support. Purpose : Authors sought to explore safety, feasibility and outcomes associated with active rehabilitation in patients requiring prolonged advanced MCS/ECMO support. Research Design : Single-center retrospective series evaluated functional, clinical, and longitudinal outcomes of sample of eight critically ill, adult (≥18 years of age) patients who underwent a intensive rehabilitation while receiving prolonged MCS/ECMO through advanced configurations including: venovenous (VV-ECMO), venoarterial (VA-ECMO), oxygenator with right ventricular assist device (Oxy-RVAD) and right ventricular assist device (RVAD). Data Analysis : 406 sessions were conducted; 246 during provision of advanced MCS/ECMO support. Results : Incidence of major adverse events-accidental decannulation, migration of cannulas, circuit failure, hemorrhage, major flow limitations, and major hemodynamic instability-was 1.2 events per 100 sessions. None of reported major adverse events impeded longitudinal ability to participate in PT. Increased time to PT initiation was associated with a statistically significant increase in intensive care unit (ICU) length-of-stay (β1 1.93, CI 0.55–3.30) and reduced ambulatory distance during last session on MCS/ECMO (β1 -47.64, CI - 93.93, −1.66). All patients survived to hospital discharge and 12 months from sentinel hospitalization. Amongst those patients discharged to an inpatient rehabilitation center (n = 4), all were discharged home within 3 months. Conclusion : Findings support the safety and feasibility of active rehabilitational PT in patients requiring extended durations of advanced MCS/ECMO support. Moreover, it highlights potentially associated benefits of this degree of intensive rehabilitation for these unique patients. Further investigation is needed to identify associations with longitudinal clinical outcomes, as well as predictors of success in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) is one of the most critical emergencies in cardiovascular surgery. Additional complications such as organ malperfusion can significantly decrease the chances of survival. Despite promptly performed surgical treatment, impaired organ perfusion may persist, thus close postoperative monitoring is recommended. But, is there a surgical consequence due to the existence of a preoperatively known malperfusion and is there a correlation between pre-, peri- and postoperative levels of serum lactate and proven malperfusion? Methods: Between 2011 and 2018, 200 patients (66% male; median age: 62.5 years; interquartile range: +/−12.4 years) that received surgical treatment at our institution for an acute dissection DeBakey type I were enrolled in this study. The cohort was divided into two groups according to the preoperative existence of malperfusion and non-malperfusion. At least one kind of malperfusion occurred in 74 patients (Group A: 37%), while 126 patients (Group B: 63%) showed no evidence of malperfusion. Furthermore, lactate levels of both cohorts were differentiated into four periods: preoperative, intraoperative, 24 hours after surgery, and 2–4 days after surgery. Results: The patients' status differed significantly prior to surgery. Group A (malperfusion) showed an elevated requirement for mechanical resuscitation (A: 10.8%; B: 5.6%; p : 0.173), were significantly more often admitted in an intubated state (A: 14.9%; B: 2.4%; p : 0.001) and showed higher incidences of stroke (A: 18.9% (n = 149); B: 3.2% (n = 4); p : 0.001). Levels of serum lactate from the preoperative period until days 2–4 were significantly increased in the malperfusion cohort at all times. Conclusions: Preexisting malperfusion due to ATAAD may significantly increase the chance of early mortality in patients with ATAAD. Serum lactate levels were a reliable marker for inadequate perfusion from admission until day 4 after surgery. Despite this, early intervention survival in this cohort remains limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the worsening opioid epidemic, complicated infective endocarditis (IE) secondary to intravenous drug use (IVDU) that fails medical management is increasingly common. We present a 31-year-old patient post tricuspid valve replacement who relapsed with recurrent IE and secondary complications of severe tricuspid stenosis and regurgitation, ventricular septal defect (VSD), pulmonary emboli, right-sided heart failure with severe hepatic congestion, and cardiogenic shock. Despite maximal medical management, the patient remained in septic and cardiogenic shock with a potential disposition to hospice care. Upon consulting cardiothoracic surgery, she underwent a first-stage valvectomy with central Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) as a bridge to definitive treatment. After clearance of infection, she underwent a second-stage valve replacement, VSD repair, and final ECMO decannulation. Our case alludes to ECMO as a potential bridge for patients with complicated infective endocarditis who fail medical management and are high-risk candidates for immediate definitive surgical management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This meta-analysis aimed to explore the impact of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion on mortality during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Previous studies investigated the prognostic impact of RBC transfusion during ECMO on the risk of mortality, but no meta-analysis has been published before. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library were systematically searched for papers published up to 13 December 2021, using the MeSH terms "ECMO", "'Erythrocytes", and "Mortality" to identify meta-analyses. Total or daily RBC transfusion during ECMO and mortality were examined. Results: The random-effect model was used. Eight studies (794 patients, including 354 dead) were included. The total volume of RBC was associated with higher mortality standardized weighted difference (SWD = −0.62, 95% CI: −1.06,−0.18, p =.006; I2 = 79.7%, Pheterogeneity = 0.001). The daily volume of RBC was associated with higher mortality (SWD = −0.77, 95% CI: −1.11,−0.42, p <.001; I2 = 65.7%, Pheterogeneity = 0.020). The total volume of RBC was associated with mortality for venovenous (VV) (SWD = −0.72, 95% CI: −1.23, −0.20, p =.006) but not venoarterial ECMO (p =.126) or when reported together (p =.089). The daily volume of RBC was associated with mortality for VV (SWD = −0.72, 95% CI: −1.18, −0.26, p = 0.002; I2 = 0.0%, Pheterogeneity = 0.642) and venoarterial (SWD = −0.95, 95% CI: −1.32, −0.57, p <.001) ECMO, but not when reported together (p =.067). The sensitivity analysis suggested the robustness of the results. Conclusion: When considering the total and daily volumes of RBC transfusion during ECMO, the patients who survived received smaller total and daily volumes of RBC transfusion. This meta-analysis suggests that RBC transfusion might be associated with a higher risk of mortality during ECMO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Obesity is associated with a worse prognosis in COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Veno-venous (V-V) Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) can be a rescue option, however, the direct impact of morbid obesity in this select group of patients remains unclear. Methods: This is an observational study of critically ill adults with COVID-19 and ARDS supported by V-V ECMO. Data are from 82 institutions participating in the COVID-19 Critical Care Consortium international registry. Patients were admitted between 12 January 2020 to 27 April 2021. They were stratified based on Body Mass Index (BMI) at 40 kg/m2. The endpoint was survival to hospital discharge. Results: Complete data available on 354 of 401 patients supported on V-V ECMO. The characteristics of the high BMI (>40 kg/m2) and lower BMI (≤40 kg/m2) groups were statistically similar. However, the 'high BMI' group were comparatively younger and had a lower APACHE II score. Using survival analysis, older age (Hazard Ratio, HR 1.49 per-10-years, CI 1.25–1.79) and higher BMI (HR 1.15 per-5 kg/m2 increase, CI 1.03 – 1.28) were associated with a decreased patient survival. A safe BMI threshold above which V-V ECMO would be prohibitive was not apparent and instead, the risk of an adverse outcome increased linearly with BMI. Conclusion : In COVID-19 patients with severe ARDS who require V-V ECMO, there is an increased risk of death associated with age and BMI. The risk is linear and there is no BMI threshold beyond which the risk for death greatly increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Clinical assessment and laboratory markers provide valuable information on tissue perfusion and enhance the optimalisation of management in the treatment of patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The PCO2 gap is a reliable marker of cardiac output (CO) and perfusion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the PCO2 gap as a marker of tissue hypoperfusion and to compare it to lactate and SvO². METHODS: A single-center retrospective study on 131 adult cardiac patients who underwent ECMO implantation in the period between 2010 and 2021. Baseline characteristics, laboratory markers and mortality were analyzed. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference in the plasmatic levels of lactate, SvO2 and PCO2 gap between patients that survived and those who died post ECMO implantation (3.6±3.29 vs 7.15±7.38 mmol/l, p<0.001; 69.13±9 vs 67.38±10%, p<0.001; 7.65±2.93 vs 8.34±3.71, p<0.001 respectively). There was a statistically significant difference in PCO2 gap in the first 5 arterial blood gas (ABG) samples post ECMO implantation between patients that survived and those who died (9.08±4.79 vs 10.37±5.35, p<0.003). For SvO2, this difference was not statistically significant (69.82±11.91 vs 68.51±11.72, p<0.104). There was a statistically significant but low negative correlation between SvO2 and PCO2 gap post ECMO implantation (r = -0.354, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The PCO2 gap is a valuable biomarker for monitoring tissue perfusion in patients on ECMO. It is associated with increased mortality and should be an integral part of clinical evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction The incidence and management outcomes of COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) on veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) requiring chest tubes are not well-described. This study sought to explore differences in tube thoracostomy rates and subsequent complications between patients with and without COVID-19 ARDS on V-V ECMO. Materials and Methods This study is a single institution, retrospective cohort study of patients with COVID-19 ARDS requiring V-V ECMO. The control cohort consisted of patients who required V-V ECMO for ARDS-related diagnoses from January 2018 to January 2021. The primary outcome was any complication following initial tube thoracostomy placement. Study approval was obtained from the Brooke Army Medical Center Institutional Review Board (C.2017.152d). Results Twenty-five COVID-19 patients and 38 controls were included. Demographic parameters did not differ between the groups. The incidence of pneumothorax was not significantly different between the two groups (44% COVID-19 vs. 22% control, OR 2.8, 95% CI 0.95–7.9, P  = 0.09). Patients with COVID-19 were as likely to receive tube thoracostomy as controls (36% vs. 24%, OR 1.8, 95% CI 0.55–5.7). Complications, however, were more likely to occur in the COVID-19 group (89% vs. 33%, OR 16, 95% CI, 1.6–201, P  = 0.0498). Conclusions Tube thoracostomy placement in COVID-19 patients with ARDS requiring V-V ECMO is common, as are complications following initial placement. Clinicians should anticipate the need for re-intervention in this patient population. Small-bore (14Fr and smaller) pigtail catheters appeared to be safe and efficacious in this setting, but further study on tube thoracostomy management in ECMO patients is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children are susceptible to developing sepsis. Among its complications, septic shock is the most severe. Refractory septic shock (RSS) is defined as septic shock that is unresponsive to standard resuscitation. As the most severe complication of sepsis in children, refractory septic shock (RSS) is characterized by its rapid development and high mortality rate. In accordance with relevant guidelines and consensus, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is recommended as a salvage therapy for the treatment of RSS in children. However, various controversies and difficulties still exists when ECMO is used to treat children with RSS. Thus, this review summarizes the current status, difficulties, and explorations of applying ECMO to the treatment of RSS in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is often the last resort for escalation of treatment in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The success of treatment is mainly determined by patient-specific factors, such as age, comorbidities, duration and invasiveness of the pre-existing ventilation treatment as well as the expertise of the treating ECMO center. In particular, the adjustment of mechanical ventilation during ongoing ECMO treatment remains controversial. Although a reduction of invasiveness of mechanical ventilation seems to be reasonable due to physiological considerations, no improvement in outcome has been demonstrated so far for the use of ultraprotective ventilation regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Since the 2018 change in the US adult heart allocation policy, more patients are bridged‐to‐transplant on temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS). Previous studies indicate that durable left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) may lead to allosensitization. The goal of this study was to assess whether tMCS implantation is associated with changes in sensitization. Methods: We included patients evaluated for heart transplants between 2015 and 2022 who had alloantibody measured before and after MCS implantation. Allosensitization was defined as development of new alloantibodies after tMCS implant. Results: A total of 41 patients received tMCS before transplant. Nine (22.0%) patients developed alloantibodies following tMCS implantation: 3 (12.0%) in the intra‐aortic balloon pump group (n = 25), 2 (28.6%) in the microaxial percutaneous LVAD group (n = 7), and 4 (44.4%) in the veno‐arterial extra‐corporeal membrane oxygenation group (n = 9)—p =.039. Sensitized patients were younger (44.7 ± 11.6 years vs. 54.3 ± 12.5 years, p =.044), were more likely to be sensitized at baseline ‐ 4 of 9 (44.4%) compared to 1 out of 32 (3.1%) (p =.001) and received more transfusions with red blood cells (6 (66.7%) vs. 8 (25%), p =.02) and platelets (6 (66.7%) vs. 5 (15.6%), p =.002). There was no significant difference in tMCS median duration of support (4 [3,15] days vs. 8.5 [5,14.5] days, p =.57). Importantly, out of the 11 patients who received a durable LVAD after tMCS, 5 (45.5%) became sensitized, compared to 4 out of 30 patients (13.3%) who only had tMCS—p =.028. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that patients bridged‐to‐transplant with tMCS, without significant blood product transfusions and a subsequent durable LVAD implant, have a low risk of allosensitization. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings and determine whether risk of sensitization varies by type of tMCS and duration of support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large mediastinal lipomas are rare. Complete surgical resection can be difficult due to the intricate anatomy in the mediastinum. We report the case of a 75-year-old man with worsened retrosternal pressure, decline in performance and syncope episodes. Computed tomography revealed a large retrocardiac low-attenuated mediastinal lesion measuring 10 × 8 cm, compressing the left atrium and pulmonary veins bilaterally. Surgical exploration was achieved through a right anterolateral thoracotomy with a successful en bloc resection without any intraoperative complications. The total operation time was 185 min with a total blood loss of <250 ml. Stand-by extracorporeal life support was present throughout the procedure, but its use was not required. The postoperative course was uneventful. The pathological examination revealed a mature mediastinal lipoma without any evidence of malignancy. In the 12-month control the patient was completely free of symptoms and in a good general condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) using a venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) device or a catheter-type heart pump (Impella) is critical for the rescue of patients with severe cardiogenic shock. However, these MCS devices require large-bore cannula access (14-Fr and larger) at the femoral artery or vein, which often requires surgical decannulation. In this retrospective study, we evaluated post-closure method using a percutaneous suture-mediated vascular closure system, Perclose ProGlide/ProStyle (Abbott Vascular, Lake Bluff, IL, Perclose), as an alternative procedure for MCS decannulation. Closure of 83 Impella access sites and 68 VA-ECMO access sites performed using Perclose or surgical method between January 2018 and March 2023 were evaluated. MCS decannulation using Perclose was successfully completed in all access sites without surgical hemostasis. The procedure time of ProGlide was shorter than surgical decannulation for both Impella and VA-ECMO (13 min vs. 50 min; p < 0.001, 21 min vs. 65 min; p < 0.001, respectively). There were no significant differences in the 30-day survival rate and major adverse events by decannulation including arterial dissection requiring endovascular treatment, hemorrhage requiring a large amount of red blood cell transfusion, and access site infection. Our results suggest that the post-closure technique using the percutaneous suture-mediated closure system appears to be a safe and effective method for large-bore MCS decannulation. • Perclose shortens the access site closure time compared to surgical cutdown for MCS devices. • The median procedure time for Impella removal using Perclose was 13 min. • The median procedure time for VA-ECMO removal using Perclose was 21 min. • No significant difference in survival rate and adverse events between Perclose and surgical removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the impact of heart donors and recipients parameters on the outcomes after orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT). Two hundred fifteen patients who underwent OHT from 2020 to 2023 were analyzed. Average donors age 36.3 (±13.1) years, 74 women (34.42%), BMI 25.3 (±4.99), Na+ concentration 153.7 (±11.8) mmol/L. Mean intraventricular septum thickness 10.0 (±2.2) mm, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter 44.3 (±6) mm, ejection fraction 60.3 (±7.92) %. Median procalcitonin was 0.6 ng/mL. Levonor was used in 75.8%, Empressin in 4.2%, Dopamine in 5.1%, Dobutamine in 3.7%, and Adrenaline in 3.7% of donors. The most common cause of death: intracranial injury (34.42%). Cardiopulmonary resuscitation occurred in 34%, alcoholism in 20.9%, nicotinism in 16.3%, and drug addiction in 7.4% of donors. Mean aortic cross-clamping time was 200.3 (±48.8) minutes. Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) after OHT required 6.1%, extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) 6.1%, and renal dialysis 36% of recipients. The 1-year mortality rate was 19.1%. Death after OHT correlated with: longer aortic cross-clamping time (207.6 vs 198.59 minutes, P =.292), longer extracorporeal circulation time (196.3 vs 186.47 minutes, P =.335), lower Empressin dose (median 0.01 vs 0.02 j.m/min, P =.03) in donors, longer postoperative mechanical ventilation (mean 101.46 vs 23.09 hours, P =.001), more frequent dialysis, IABP or ECMO (P =.001) and older age of the recipient (51.2 vs 44.8 years, P =.014). Previous cardiac surgery or any surgical intervention after transplantation significantly influenced mortality. The remaining donor factors had no impact on the OHT result. Identification of risk factors in the donor and recipient may improve treatment outcomes after OHT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is increasingly used for mechanical circulatory support during lung transplant. Optimal intensity of intraoperative anticoagulation would be expected to mitigate thromboembolism without increasing bleeding and blood product transfusions. Yet, the optimal intensity of intraoperative anticoagulation is unknown. We performed a retrospective cohort study of 163 patients who received a bilateral lung transplant at a single center. We categorized the intensity of anticoagulation into 4 groups (very low to high) based on the bolus dose of unfractionated heparin given during lung transplant and compared the rates of intraoperative blood transfusions and the occurrence of thromboembolism between groups. When compared to the very low-intensity group, each higher intensity group was associated with higher red blood cell, fresh frozen plasma, and platelet transfusions. The occurrence of thromboembolism was similar across groups. These preliminary data suggest that lower intensity anticoagulation may reduce the rate of intraoperative blood transfusions, although further study is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review summarizes the current evidence regarding efficacy and safety of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) in the setting of cardiogenic shock. Currently, there is evidence from 4 randomized controlled trials which all do not support a mortality benefit and increased complication rates by VA-ECMO. Based on current evidence, possible subgroups will be discussed and indications in selected very small patient groups be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reoperative lung transplantation (LTx) survival has improved over time such that a growing number of patients may present for third-time LTx (L3Tx). To understand the safety of L3Tx, we evaluated perioperative outcomes and 3-year survival after L3Tx at a high-volume US LTx center. This retrospective study included all patients who underwent bilateral L3Tx at our institution. Using an optimal matching technique, a primary LTx (L1Tx) cohort was matched 1:2 and a second-time LTx (L2Tx) cohort 1:1. Recipient, operative, and donor characteristics, perioperative outcomes, and 3-year survival were compared among L1Tx, L2Tx, and L3Tx groups. Eleven L3Tx, 11 L2Tx, and 22 L1Tx recipients were included. Among L3Tx recipients, median age at transplant was 37 years and most (73%) had cystic fibrosis. L3Tx was performed median 6.0 and 10.6 years after L2Tx and L1Tx, respectively. Compared to L1Tx and L2Tx recipients, L3Tx recipients had greater intraoperative transfusion requirements, a higher incidence of postoperative complications, and a higher rate of unplanned reoperation. Rates of grade 3 primary graft dysfunction at 72 hours, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation at 72 hours, reintubation, and in-hospital mortality were similar among groups. There were no differences in 3-year patient (log-rank p = 0.61) or rejection-free survival (log-rank p = 0.34) after L1Tx, L2Tx, and L3Tx. At our institution, L3Tx was associated with similar perioperative outcomes and 3-year patient survival compared to L1Tx and L2Tx. L3Tx represents the only safe treatment option for patients with allograft failure after L2Tx; however, further investigation is needed to understand the long-term survival and durability of L3Tx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-saving modality but has the potential to alter the pharmacokinetics (PK) of antimicrobials. Imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam is an antibiotic with utility in treating certain multi-drug resistant Gram-negative infections. Herein, we describe the population pharmacokinetics of imipenem and relebactam in critically ill patients supported on ECMO. Methods Patients with infection supported on ECMO received 4–6 doses of imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam per current prescribing information based on estimated creatinine clearance. Blood samples were collected following the final dose of the antibiotic. Concentrations were determined via LC–MS/MS. Population PK models were fit with and without covariates using Pmetrics. Monte Carlo simulations of 1000 patients assessed joint PTA of f AUC0–24/MIC ≥ 8 for relebactam, and ≥40% f T > MIC for imipenem for each approved dosing regimen. Results Seven patients supported on ECMO were included in PK analyses. A two-compartment model with creatinine clearance as a covariate on clearance for both imipenem and relebactam fitted the data best. The mean ± standard deviation parameters were: CL0, 15.21 ± 6.52 L/h; Vc, 10.13 ± 2.26 L; K12, 2.45 ± 1.16 h−1 and K21, 1.76 ± 0.49 h−1 for imipenem, and 6.95 ± 1.34 L/h, 9.81 ± 2.69 L, 2.43 ± 1.13 h−1 and 1.52 ± 0.67 h−1 for relebactam. Simulating each approved dose of imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam according to creatinine clearance yielded PTAs of ≥90% up to an MIC of 2 mg/L. Conclusions Imipenem/cilastatin/relebactam dosed according to package insert in patients supported on ECMO is predicted to achieve exposures sufficient to treat susceptible Gram-negative isolates, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]