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Hollander SA, Pyke-Grimm KA, Shezad MF, Zafar F, Cousino MK, Feudtner C, Char DS. End-of-Life in Pediatric Patients Supported by Ventricular Assist Devices: A Network Database Cohort Study. Pediatr Crit Care Med 2023; 24:41-50. [PMID: 36398973 DOI: 10.1097/pcc.0000000000003115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Most pediatric patients on ventricular assist device (VAD) survive to transplantation. Approximately 15% will die on VAD support, and the circumstances at the end-of-life are not well understood. We, therefore, sought to characterize patient location and invasive interventions used at the time of death. DESIGN Retrospective database study of a cohort meeting inclusion criteria. SETTING Thirty-six centers participating in the Advanced Cardiac Therapies Improving Outcomes Network (ACTION) Registry. PATIENTS Children who died on VAD therapy in the period March 2012 to September 2021. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of the 117 of 721 patients (16%) who died on VAD, the median (interquartile range) age was 5 years (1-16 yr) at 43 days (17-91 d) postimplant. Initial goals of therapy were bridge to consideration for candidacy for transplantation in 60 of 117 (51%), bridge to transplantation in 44 of 117 (38%), bridge to recovery 11 of 117 (9%), or destination therapy (i.e., VAD as the endpoint) in two of 117 (2%). The most common cause of death was multiple organ failure in 35 of 117 (30%), followed by infection in 12 of 117 (10%). Eighty-five of 92 (92%) died with a functioning device in place. Most patients were receiving invasive interventions (mechanical ventilation, vasoactive infusions, etc.) at the end of life. Twelve patients (10%) died at home. CONCLUSIONS One-in-six pediatric VAD patients die while receiving device support, with death occurring soon after implant and usually from noncardiac causes. Aggressive interventions are common at the end-of-life. The ACTION Registry data should inform future practices to promote informed patient/family and clinician decision-making to hopefully reduce suffering at the end-of-life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth A Hollander
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Kimberly A Pyke-Grimm
- Departments of Pediatrics (Hematology/Oncology), and Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Muhammad F Shezad
- The Heart Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Farhan Zafar
- The Heart Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Melissa K Cousino
- Departments of Pediatrics and Cardiac Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Chris Feudtner
- Department of Pediatrics (General Pediatrics), Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Danton S Char
- Department of Anesthesia (Pediatric Cardiac), Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
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Machado DS, Garros D, Montuno L, Avery LK, Kittelson S, Peek G, Moynihan KM. Finishing Well: Compassionate Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Discontinuation. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:e553-e562. [PMID: 35031504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is associated with significant mortality. Provision of high-quality end-of-life (EOL) care for patients supported on ECMO entails specific physiological, pharmacological, and technical considerations. Limited guidance exists for clinicians on delivery of optimal EOL care on ECMO. In this article, we review the unique aspects of EOL care as they apply to ECMO support and propose a pragmatic, interdisciplinary framework for compassionate ECMO discontinuation in children and adults. The goal of compassionate ECMO discontinuation (CED) is to allow natural death from the underlying disease process while delivering high-quality EOL care to ensure a good death experience for patients and their families. The CED approach includes: 1) a family meeting to define goal-concordant EOL care and prepare families and patients for the dying process; 2) clinical preparation, including symptom management and discontinuation of other life-sustaining therapies; 3) technical aspects which necessarily vary according to patient factors and the circuit and cannulation strategy; and 4) bereavement support. The proposed CED considerations and checklist may serve as tools aiding provision of comprehensive, quality, individualized patient- and family-centered care for children and adults dying despite ECMO support. A structured CED may enhance EOL experiences for patients, family, and staff by providing a respectful and dignified death experience. Future research is required to determine feasibility and effectiveness of the framework, which must be adapted to the patient and institutional setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desiree S Machado
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine (D.S.M., L.K.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.
| | - Daniel Garros
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine & John Dossetor Health Ethics Centre (D.G.), Stollery Children's Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lauriedale Montuno
- Mother of Mila Grace Montuno, Bereavement Coordinator (L.M.), Conquering CHD Organization
| | - Leslie K Avery
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine (D.S.M., L.K.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Sheri Kittelson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Palliative Care (S.K.), University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Giles Peek
- Department of Surgery, Congenital Heart Center (G.P.), University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Katie M Moynihan
- Department of Cardiology, Division of Cardiovascular Critical Care (K.M.M.), Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Pediatrics (K.M.M.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Kids Critical Care Research (K.M.M.), Children's Hospital Westmead, Sydney, Australia
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3
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Char DS, Hollander SA, Feudtner C. Compassionate Deactivation of Ventricular Assist Devices in Children with Heart Failure. ASAIO J 2021; 67:1187-1188. [PMID: 34352820 DOI: 10.1097/mat.0000000000001545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Danton S Char
- Division of Pediatric Cardiac Anesthesia, Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford University School of Medicine
| | - Seth A Hollander
- Pediatric Heart Failure & Transplantation Section, Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine
| | - Chris Feudtner
- The Department of Medical Ethics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
- Departments of Pediatrics, Medical Ethics and Healthcare Policy, The Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania
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4
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Hollander SA, Kaufman BD, Bui C, Gregori B, Murray JM, Sacks L, Ryan KR, Ma M, Rosenthal DN, Char D. Compassionate Deactivation of Pediatric Ventricular Assist Devices: A Review of 14 Cases. J Pain Symptom Manage 2021; 62:523-528. [PMID: 33910026 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.01.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Compassionate deactivation (CD) of ventricular assist device (VAD) support is a recognized option for children when the burden of therapy outweighs the benefits. OBJECTIVES To describe the prevalence, indications, and outcomes of CD of children supported by VADs at the end of life. METHODS Review of cases of CD at our institution between 2011 and 2020. To distinguish CD from other situations where VAD support is discontinued, patients were excluded from the study if they died during resuscitation (including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), experienced brain or circulatory death prior to deactivation, or experienced a non-survivable brain injury likely to result in imminent death regardless of VAD status. RESULTS Of 24 deaths on VAD, 14 (58%) were CD. Median age was 5.7 (interquartile range (IQR) 0.6, 11.6) years; 6 (43%) had congenital heart disease; 4 (29%) were on a device that can be used outside of the hospital. CD occurred after 40 (IQR: 26, 75) days of support; none while active transplant candidates. CD discussions were initiated by the caregiver in 6 (43%) cases, with the remainder initiated by a medical provider. Reasons for CD were multifactorial, including end-organ injury, infection, and stroke. CD occurred with endotracheal extubation and/or discontinuation of inotropes in 12 (86%) cases, and death occurred within 10 (IQR: 4, 23) minutes of CD. CONCLUSION CD is the mode of death in more than half of our VAD non-survivors and is pursued for reasons primarily related to noncardiac events. Caregivers and providers both initiate CD discussions. Ventilatory and inotropic support is often withdrawn at time of CD with ensuing death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth A Hollander
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University School of Medicine (S.A.H., B.D.K., C.B., L.S., K.R.R., D.N.R.), Palo Alto, California, USA.
| | - Beth D Kaufman
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University School of Medicine (S.A.H., B.D.K., C.B., L.S., K.R.R., D.N.R.), Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Christine Bui
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University School of Medicine (S.A.H., B.D.K., C.B., L.S., K.R.R., D.N.R.), Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Bianca Gregori
- Department of Social Work, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford (B.G.), Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Jenna M Murray
- Solid Organ Transplant Services, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford (J.M.M), Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Loren Sacks
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University School of Medicine (S.A.H., B.D.K., C.B., L.S., K.R.R., D.N.R.), Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Kathleen R Ryan
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University School of Medicine (S.A.H., B.D.K., C.B., L.S., K.R.R., D.N.R.), Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Michael Ma
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine (M.M.), Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - David N Rosenthal
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University School of Medicine (S.A.H., B.D.K., C.B., L.S., K.R.R., D.N.R.), Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Danton Char
- Department of Anesthesia, Stanford University School of Medicine (D.C.), Palo Alto, California, USA
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5
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Lorts A, Conway J, Schweiger M, Adachi I, Amdani S, Auerbach SR, Barr C, Bleiweis MS, Blume ED, Burstein DS, Cedars A, Chen S, Cousino-Hood MK, Daly KP, Danziger-Isakov LA, Dubyk N, Eastaugh L, Friedland-Little J, Gajarski R, Hasan A, Hawkins B, Jeewa A, Kindel SJ, Kogaki S, Lantz J, Law SP, Maeda K, Mathew J, May LJ, Miera O, Murray J, Niebler RA, O'Connor MJ, Özbaran M, Peng DM, Philip J, Reardon LC, Rosenthal DN, Rossano J, Salazar L, Schumacher KR, Simpson KE, Stiller B, Sutcliffe DL, Tunuguntla H, VanderPluym C, Villa C, Wearden PD, Zafar F, Zimpfer D, Zinn MD, Morales IRD, Cowger J, Buchholz H, Amodeo A. ISHLT consensus statement for the selection and management of pediatric and congenital heart disease patients on ventricular assist devices Endorsed by the American Heart Association. J Heart Lung Transplant 2021; 40:709-732. [PMID: 34193359 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2021.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Lorts
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| | | | - Martin Schweiger
- Universitäts-Kinderspitals Zürich - Herzchirurgie, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Iki Adachi
- Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Scott R Auerbach
- Anschutz Medical Campus, Children's Hospital of Colorado, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Charlotte Barr
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Victoria Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark S Bleiweis
- Shands Children's Hospital, University of Florida Health, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | | | - Ari Cedars
- Children's Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Sharon Chen
- Stanford Children's Health and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, California
| | | | - Kevin P Daly
- Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lara A Danziger-Isakov
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Nicole Dubyk
- Stollery Children's Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lucas Eastaugh
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Victoria Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | - Asif Hasan
- Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Beth Hawkins
- Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Aamir Jeewa
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Steven J Kindel
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin and Herma Heart Institute, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Winscoin
| | | | - Jodie Lantz
- Children's Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Sabrina P Law
- Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York Presbyterian, New York, New York
| | - Katsuhide Maeda
- Stanford Children's Health and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, California
| | - Jacob Mathew
- The Royal Children's Hospital, Victoria Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | - Jenna Murray
- Stanford Children's Health and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, California
| | - Robert A Niebler
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin and Herma Heart Institute, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Winscoin
| | | | | | - David M Peng
- C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Joseph Philip
- Shands Children's Hospital, University of Florida Health, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - David N Rosenthal
- Stanford Children's Health and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, California
| | - Joseph Rossano
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Kurt R Schumacher
- C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | | | - David L Sutcliffe
- Children's Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | | | | | - Chet Villa
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Farhan Zafar
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Matthew D Zinn
- Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Joong A, Gossett JG, Blume ED, Thrush P, Pahl E, Mongé MC, Backer CL, Patel A. Variability in clinical decision-making for ventricular assist device implantation in pediatrics. Pediatr Transplant 2020; 24:e13840. [PMID: 33070459 DOI: 10.1111/petr.13840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minimal data exist on clinical decision-making in VAD implantation in pediatrics. This study aims to identify areas of consensus/variability among pediatric VAD physicians in determining eligibility and factors that guide decision-making. METHODS An 88-item survey with clinical vignettes was sent to 132 pediatric HT cardiologists and surgeons at 37 centers. Summary statistics are presented for the variables assessed. RESULTS Total respondents were 65 (72% cardiologists, 28% surgeons) whose centers implanted 1-5 (34%), 6-10 (40%), or >10 (26%) VADs in the past year. Consensus varied by patients' age, diagnosis, and Pedimacs profile. Highest agreement to offer VAD (97%) was a mechanically ventilated teenager with dilated cardiomyopathy. Patients stable on inotropes were less likely offered VAD (11%-25%). SV infant with Pedimacs profile 2 had the most varied responses: 37% offered VAD; estimated survival ranged from 15% to 90%. Variables considered for VAD eligibility included mild developmental delays (100% offered VAD), moderate-severe behavioral concerns (46%), cancer in remission >2 years (100%), active malignancy with good prognosis (68%) or uncertain prognosis (36%), and BMI >35 (74%) or <15 (69%). Most respondents (91%) would consider destination therapy VADs in pediatrics, though not currently feasible at 1/3 of centers. Factors with greatest influence on decision-making included HT candidacy, families' goals of care, and risks of complications. CONCLUSIONS Significant variation exists among pediatric VAD physicians when determining VAD eligibility and estimating survival, which can lead to differences in access to emerging technologies across institutions. Further work is needed to understand and mitigate these differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Joong
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jeffrey G Gossett
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of San Francisco California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth D Blume
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Philip Thrush
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Elfriede Pahl
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael C Mongé
- Division of Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carl L Backer
- Section of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, UK Healthcare Kentucky Children's Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Angira Patel
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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7
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Knoll C, Kaufman B, Chen S, Murray J, Cohen H, Sourkes BM, Rosenthal DN, Hollander SA. Palliative Care Engagement for Pediatric Ventricular Assist Device Patients: A Single-Center Experience. ASAIO J 2020; 66:929-932. [PMID: 32740354 DOI: 10.1097/mat.0000000000001092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Outcomes in pediatric patients with ventricular assist devices (VADs) for advanced heart failure (HF) are improving, but the risk of associated morbidity and mortality remains substantial. Few data exist on the involvement of pediatric palliative care (PPC) in this high-risk patient population. We aimed to characterize the extent of palliative care involvement in the care of patients requiring VAD placement at our institution. Single-center retrospective chart review analyzing all VAD patients at a large pediatric center over a 4 year period. Timing and extent of palliative care subspecialty involvement were analyzed. Between January 2014 and December 2017, 55 HF patients underwent VAD implantation at our institution. Pediatric palliative care utilization steadily increased over consecutive years (2014: <10% of patients, 2015: 20% of patients, 2016: 50% of patients, and 2017: 65% of patients) and occurred in 42% (n = 23) of all patients. Of these, 57% (n = 13) occurred before VAD placement while 43% (n = 10) occurred after implantation. Patients who died during their VAD implant hospitalization (24%, n = 13) were nearly twice as likely to have PPC involvement (62%) as those who reached transplant (38%). Of those who died, patients who had PPC involved in their care were more likely to limit resuscitation efforts before their death. Four patients had advanced directives in place before VAD implant, of which three had PPC consultation before device placement. Three families (5%) refused PPC involvement when offered. Pediatric palliative care utilization is increasing in VAD patients at our institution. Early PPC involvement occurred in the majority of patients and appears to lead to more frequent discussion of goals-of-care and advanced directives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Knoll
- From the Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - Beth Kaufman
- From the Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - Sharon Chen
- From the Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - Jenna Murray
- From the Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - Harvey Cohen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - Barbara M Sourkes
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - David N Rosenthal
- From the Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
| | - Seth A Hollander
- From the Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford, Palo Alto, California
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8
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Joong A, Derrington SF, Patel A, Thrush PT, Allen KY, Marino BS. Providing Compassionate End of Life Care in the Setting of Mechanical Circulatory Support. CURRENT PEDIATRICS REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40124-019-00206-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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9
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Tunuguntla H, Conway J, Villa C, Rapoport A, Jeewa A. Destination-Therapy Ventricular Assist Device in Children: "The Future Is Now". Can J Cardiol 2019; 36:216-222. [PMID: 31924452 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2019.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Durable ventricular assist devices (VADs) have significantly improved survival to transplantation among children with advanced stages of heart failure. The fundamental goals of VAD therapy include decreasing mortality, minimizing adverse events, and improving quality of life. As the pediatric VAD experience has evolved with reduced device related complications and improved survival, VAD therapy is being considered not only as a bridge to transplantation (BTT) but also as a bridge to decision (BTD) and as destination therapy (DT). Data regarding pediatric DT VAD are limited to anecdotal or case reports of children being supported for long periods with VADs and by default being classified as DT VAD. This article reviews current trends in the use of DT VAD and adverse events in children vs adults on VAD, and provides a framework for patient selection with the use of a multidisciplinary approach including palliative care. The general approach to determining DT VAD candidacy should include: 1) a reasonable success that the patient will survive the peri- and postoperative state; and 2) a high likelihood that the patient will be able to be discharged out of hospital and have adequate caregiver support. Patients with muscular dystrophy and failing Fontan physiology are examples of pediatric populations for whom DT VAD may be considered and which require unique considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Tunuguntla
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer Conway
- Department of Paediatrics, Stollery Children's Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Chet Villa
- Pediatric Cardiology, Cincinnati Children's Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Adam Rapoport
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aamir Jeewa
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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10
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Advanced heart failure in children is characterized by dynamic clinical trajectories, uncertainty of prognosis, and intermittent need for difficult decision-making, often related to novel therapeutic interventions with uncertain impact on quality of life. This review will examine the current role of palliative care to support this unique population. RECENT FINDINGS Pediatric heart failure patients commonly die in ICUs with high burden of invasive therapies together with end of life care needs. In addition, several studies advocate for integration of palliative care early in disease trajectory, not only focused on end of life care. Many advocate for the core tenets of palliative care (symptom management, communication of prognosis, and advanced care planning) to be provided by the primary cardiology team, with consultation by pediatric palliative care specialists. There is also a consensus that palliative care training should be incorporated into pediatric advanced heart disease training programs. SUMMARY Palliative care is an important component of pediatric heart failure care. Research and quality improvement efforts are needed to determine the most effective palliative care interventions for children with advanced heart disease. Provision of palliative care is an essential component of training for pediatric heart failure and transplant specialists.
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Sasazuki M, Sakai Y, Kira R, Toda N, Ichimiya Y, Akamine S, Torio M, Ishizaki Y, Sanefuji M, Narama M, Itai K, Hara T, Takada H, Kizawa Y, Ohga S. Decision-making dilemmas of paediatricians: a qualitative study in Japan. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e026579. [PMID: 31431444 PMCID: PMC6707677 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-026579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To delineate the critical decision-making processes that paediatricians apply when treating children with life-threatening conditions and the psychosocial experience of paediatricians involved in such care. DESIGN We conducted semistructured, individual face-to-face interviews for each participant from 2014 to 2015. The content of each interview was subjected to a comprehensive qualitative analysis. The categories of dilemma were extracted from a second-round content analysis. PARTICIPANTS Participants were board-certified paediatricians with sufficient experience in making decisions in relation to children with severe illnesses or disabilities. We repeated purposive sampling and analyses until we reached saturation of the category data. RESULTS We performed interviews with 15 paediatricians. They each reported both unique and overlapping categories of dilemmas that they encountered when making critical decisions. The dilemmas included five types of causal elements: (1) paediatricians' convictions; (2) the quest for the best interests of patients; (3) the quest for medically appropriate plans; (4) confronting parents and families and (5) socioenvironmental issues. Dilemmas occurred and developed as conflicting interactions among these five elements. We further categorised these five elements into three principal domains: the decision-maker (decider); consensus making among families, colleagues and society (process) and the consequential output of the decision (consequence). CONCLUSIONS This is the first qualitative study to demonstrate the framework of paediatricians' decision-making processes and the complex structures of dilemmas they face. Our data indicate the necessity of establishing and implementing an effective support system for paediatricians, such as structured professional education and arguments for creating social consensus that assist them to reach the best plan for the management of severely ill children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Momoko Sasazuki
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Health and Welfare, Seinan Jogakuin University, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Yasunari Sakai
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Kira
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Fukuoka Children's Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Naoko Toda
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yuko Ichimiya
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Satoshi Akamine
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Michiko Torio
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshito Ishizaki
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masafumi Sanefuji
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Miho Narama
- Department of Nursing, Kyoto Tachibana University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koichiro Itai
- Department of Bio/Medical Ethics, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Toshiro Hara
- President, Fukuoka Children's Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Takada
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Kizawa
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Shouichi Ohga
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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12
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Moynihan KM, Snaman JM, Kaye EC, Morrison WE, DeWitt AG, Sacks LD, Thompson JL, Hwang JM, Bailey V, Lafond DA, Wolfe J, Blume ED. Integration of Pediatric Palliative Care Into Cardiac Intensive Care: A Champion-Based Model. Pediatrics 2019; 144:peds.2019-0160. [PMID: 31366685 PMCID: PMC6855829 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2019-0160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Integration of pediatric palliative care (PPC) into management of children with serious illness and their families is endorsed as the standard of care. Despite this, timely referral to and integration of PPC into the traditionally cure-oriented cardiac ICU (CICU) remains variable. Despite dramatic declines in mortality in pediatric cardiac disease, key challenges confront the CICU community. Given increasing comorbidities, technological dependence, lengthy recurrent hospitalizations, and interventions risking significant morbidity, many patients in the CICU would benefit from PPC involvement across the illness trajectory. Current PPC delivery models have inherent disadvantages, insufficiently address the unique aspects of the CICU setting, place significant burden on subspecialty PPC teams, and fail to use CICU clinician skill sets. We therefore propose a novel conceptual framework for PPC-CICU integration based on literature review and expert interdisciplinary, multi-institutional consensus-building. This model uses interdisciplinary CICU-based champions who receive additional PPC training through courses and subspecialty rotations. PPC champions strengthen CICU PPC provision by (1) leading PPC-specific educational training of CICU staff; (2) liaising between CICU and PPC, improving use of support staff and encouraging earlier subspecialty PPC involvement in complex patients' management; and (3) developing and implementing quality improvement initiatives and CICU-specific PPC protocols. Our PPC-CICU integration model is designed for adaptability within institutional, cultural, financial, and logistic constraints, with potential applications in other pediatric settings, including ICUs. Although the PPC champion framework offers several unique advantages, barriers to implementation are anticipated and additional research is needed to investigate the model's feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M. Moynihan
- Division of Cardiovascular Critical Care, Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital Boston, Massachusetts;,Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer M. Snaman
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts;,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Erica C. Kaye
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Wynne E. Morrison
- Pediatric Advanced Care Team, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Departments of,Anesthesiology and Critical Care and
| | - Aaron G. DeWitt
- Pediatric Advanced Care Team, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Departments of,Anesthesiology and Critical Care and
| | - Loren D. Sacks
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Jess L. Thompson
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children’s Heart Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and
| | - Jennifer M. Hwang
- Pediatric Advanced Care Team, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Departments of,Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, The University of Pennsylvania and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Valerie Bailey
- Division of Cardiovascular Critical Care, Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Deborah A. Lafond
- PANDA Palliative Care Team, Children’s National and School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Joanne Wolfe
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts;,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth D. Blume
- Division of Cardiovascular Critical Care, Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s Hospital Boston, Massachusetts;,Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
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13
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Machado DS, Hollander SA, Murray J, Philip J, Bleiweis M, Kittelson S. Ventricular assist device deactivation in children: Preparedness planning and procedural checklist. J Heart Lung Transplant 2019; 38:1116-1118. [PMID: 31301967 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2019.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Desiree S Machado
- Department of Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care, Congenital Heart Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Seth A Hollander
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Jenna Murray
- Department of Pediatrics (Cardiology), Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Joseph Philip
- Department of Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care, Congenital Heart Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Mark Bleiweis
- Departments of Surgery, Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Congenital Heart Center
| | - Sheri Kittelson
- Palliative Care, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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14
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Morell E, Moynihan K, Wolfe J, Blume ED. Palliative care and paediatric cardiology: current evidence and future directions. THE LANCET CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2019; 3:502-510. [PMID: 31126897 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(19)30121-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Although outcomes for children with heart disease have improved substantially over the past several decades, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of paediatric mortality. For children who progress to advanced heart disease, disease morbidity is high, with many children requiring multiple surgical interventions and long-term intensive care hospitalisations. Care for children with advanced heart disease requires a multidisciplinary approach, and opportunities for earlier integration of palliative care are being explored. This Viewpoint summarises the relevant literature over the past decade. We also identify gaps in parent and provider understanding of prognosis and communication, propose indications for palliative care consultation in paediatric advanced heart disease, and summarise attitudes and perceived barriers to palliative care consultation. Areas for additional research that we identify include paediatric cardiologist education, parental distress, socioeconomic disparities, and patient-reported outcomes. Interdisciplinary clinical and research efforts are required to further advance the field and improve integration of palliative care in the care of children with heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Morell
- Division of Pediatric Critical Care, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Katie Moynihan
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joanne Wolfe
- Pediatric Palliative Care, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth D Blume
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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15
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Kaufman BD, Hollander SA, Zhang Y, Chen S, Bernstein D, Rosenthal DN, Almond CS, Murray JM, Burgart AM, Cohen HJ, Kirkpatrick JN, Blume ED. Compassionate deactivation of ventricular assist devices in children: A survey of pediatric ventricular assist device clinicians' perspectives and practices. Pediatr Transplant 2019; 23:e13359. [PMID: 30734422 DOI: 10.1111/petr.13359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study's objective was to investigate compassionate ventricular assist device deactivation (VADdeact) in children from the perspective of the pediatric heart failure provider. BACKGROUND Pediatric VAD use is a standard therapy for advanced heart failure. Serious adverse events may affect relative benefit of continued support, leading to consideration of VADdeact. Perspectives and practices regarding VADdeact have been studied in adults but not in children. METHODS A web-based anonymous survey of clinicians for pediatric VAD patients (<18 years) was sent to list-serves for the ISHLT Pediatric Council, the International Consortium of Circulatory Assist Clinicians Pediatric Taskforce, and the Pediatric Cardiac Intensivist Society. RESULTS A total of 106 respondents met inclusion criteria of caring for pediatric VAD patients. Annual VAD volume per clinician ranged from <4 (33%) to >9 (20%). Seventy percent of respondents had performed VADdeact of a child. Response varied to VADdeact requests by parent or patient and was influenced by professional degree and region of practice. Except for the scenario of intractable suffering, no consensus on VADdeact appropriateness was reported. Age of child thought capable of making informed requests for VADdeact varied by subspecialty. The majority of respondents (62%) do not feel fully informed of relevant legal issues; 84% reported that professional society supported guidelines for VADdeact in children had utility. CONCLUSION There is limited consensus regarding indications for VADdeact in children reported by pediatric VAD provider survey respondents. Knowledge gaps related to legal issues are evident; therefore, professional guidelines and educational resources related to pediatric VADdeact are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth D Kaufman
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Seth A Hollander
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Yulin Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Sharon Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Daniel Bernstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - David N Rosenthal
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Christopher S Almond
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Jenna M Murray
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Alyssa M Burgart
- Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Harvey J Cohen
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - James N Kirkpatrick
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Bioethics and Humanities, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Elizabeth D Blume
- Department of Cardiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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16
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Char D, Hollander SA. The Decision to Withdraw in Children With Ventricular Assist Devices. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2019; 19:61-62. [PMID: 31543046 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2018.1563655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
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17
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Hollander SA. Left ventricular assist device support as destination therapy in pediatric patients with end-stage heart failure. PROGRESS IN PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ppedcard.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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18
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Temporary left ventricular assistance for extreme postoperative heart failure in two infants with Bland-White-Garland syndrome. POLISH JOURNAL OF THORACIC AND CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY 2016; 13:269-272. [PMID: 27785147 PMCID: PMC5071600 DOI: 10.5114/kitp.2016.62622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (Bland-White-Garland syndrome – BWG) is a serious congenital cardiac anomaly leading to myocardial ischemia with severe heart failure. Immediate surgical correction is the treatment of choice, and the risk of postoperative complications depends on the degree of myocardial injury. The authors present two cases of infants with BWG, in whom long-term (175 and 26 days) left ventricular assistance with a Berlin Heart device was used, resulting in successful weaning from the support and subsequent hospital discharge. Because of serious hemorrhagic complications and their neurological consequences observed in the first patient, the anticoagulation protocol was modified in the second patient, providing more stable support and allowing the device to be removed after a shorter period of time. The Berlin Heart left ventricular assist device may be treated not only as a bridge for transplantation but also, considering the shortage of donors in this age group, as a bridge to recovery.
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19
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McKenna M, Clark SC. Comment on: Compassionate deactivation of ventricular assist devices in pediatric patients. J Heart Lung Transplant 2016; 35:1275-1276. [PMID: 27593260 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria McKenna
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Palliative Medicine and Cardiothoracic
| | - Stephen C Clark
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Transplant Surgery, Transplant Surgery and Quality and Patient Safety, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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20
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Fruhwald S, Pollesello P, Fruhwald F. Advanced heart failure: an appraisal of the potential of levosimendan in this end-stage scenario and some related ethical considerations. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2016; 14:1335-1347. [PMID: 27778514 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2016.1247694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The later stages of heart failure are characterized by a steady decline in quality of life. Clinical priorities should be to maintain functional capacity and quality of life. In the absence of sufficient organs for transplantation, options include left ventricular assist devices and inotropic support. Areas covered: We examined data published in the last two decades on the use of inotropes and inodilators in advanced heart failure. Expert commentary: In the literature, use of conventional inotropes, including adrenergic agonists and phosphodiesterase inhibitors, appears to be suboptimal for achieving the clinical priorities of late-stage heart failure. Evidence suggests instead that the calcium-sensitizing inodilator levosimendan, administered intermittently, delivers improvements in functional capacity and quality of life and does so with no adverse impact on life expectancy. At a terminal or near-terminal stage of heart failure, the therapeutic philosophy should shift towards meeting patients' existential priorities rather than traditional heart failure-centric targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Fruhwald
- a Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology for Cardiovascular Surgery and Intensive Care Medicine , Medical University of Graz , Graz , Austria
| | - Piero Pollesello
- b Critical Care Proprietary Products , Orion Pharma , Espoo , Finland
| | - Friedrich Fruhwald
- c Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology , Medical University of Graz , Graz , Austria
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