Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for infant postcardiotomy support: significance of shunt management

Early outcomes of moderate-to-high-risk pediatric congenital cardiac surgery and predictors of extracorporeal circulatory life support requirement

Background

Cardiopulmonary failure refractory to medical management after moderate-to-high-risk congenital cardiac surgery may necessitate mechanical support with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). On the extreme, ECMO can also be initiated in the setting of cardiac arrest (extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, ECPR) unresponsive to conventional resuscitative measures.

Methods

This was a single-center retrospective cohort study of patients (n = 510) aged <3 years old who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass with a RACHS-1 score ≥3 between 2011 and 2014. Perioperative factors were reviewed to identify predictors of ECMO initiation and mortality in the operating room (OR) and the intensive care unit (ICU).

Results

A total of 510 patients with a mean surgical age of 10.0 ± 13.4 months were included. Among them, 21 (4%) patients received postoperative ECMO-12 were initiated in the OR and 9 in the ICU. ECMO cannulation was associated with cardiopulmonary bypass duration, aortopulmonary shunt, residual severe mitral regurgitation, vaso-inotropic score, and postprocedural lactate (p < 0.001). Of the 32 (6%) total deaths, 7 (22%) were ECMO patients-4 were elective OR cannulations and 3 were ICU ECPR. Prematurity [hazard ratio (HR): 2.61, p < 0.01), Norwood or Damus-Kaye-Stansel procedure (HR: 4.29, p < 0.001), postoperative left ventricular dysfunction (HR: 5.10, p = 0.01), residual severe tricuspid regurgitation (HR: 6.06, p < 0.001), and postoperative ECMO (ECPR: HR: 15.42, p < 0.001 vs. elective: HR: 5.26, p = 0.01) were associated with mortality. The two patients who were electively cannulated in the ICU survived.

Discussion

Although uncommon, postoperative ECMO in children after congenital cardiac surgery is associated with high mortality, especially in cases of ECPR. Patients with long cardiopulmonary bypass time, residual cardiac lesions, or increased vaso-inotropic requirement are at higher risk of receiving ECMO. Pre-emptive or early ECMO initiation before deterioration into cardiac arrest may improve survival.

Use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and cerebral oximetry in a stage 1 norwood repair for hypoplastic left heart syndrome

The role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and its indications in stage I Norwood palliation are controversial. The decision to initiate ECMO and its timing remains difficult with no definitive cut-off points or evidence-based guidelines. It varies on a case-to-case basis. We report a case where the use of ECMO was beneficial after stage I Norwood palliation with severe ventricular dysfunction. The systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt was kept open to balance the systemic and pulmonary circulations. Cerebral oximetry can be useful as an additional monitoring modality to guide management, monitor cerebral perfusion, and help detect cerebral steal.

Outcomes of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Patients After Repair of Congenital Heart Defects

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is widely used after congenital heart surgery. The purpose of this study is to analyze the factors influencing mortality and morbidity in patients who require ECMO support after congenital cardiac surgery. All 109 patients (5.8% of total cases) who underwent ECMO support after congenital heart surgery between January 2014 and 2021 were included in this single-center study. The mean age was 10.13 ± 20.55 months, and the mean weight was 6.41 ± 6.79 kg. 87 (79.8%) of the patients were under 1 year of age. A total of 54 patients (49.5%) were weaned successfully from ECMO support, and 27 of them (24.8%) were discharged. The childhood age group had the best outcomes. Seventy-seven percent of the children were weaned successfully, and 50% were discharged. 69 patients (63.3%) had biventricular physiology; weaning and survival outcomes were better than single ventricle patients (P-value 0.002 and < 0.001, respectively). Low cardiac output (n = 49; 44.9%) as an ECMO indication had better outcomes than extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (n = 31; 28.4%) (P = 0.05). Most of the patients had ≥ 4 Modified Aristotle Comprehensive Complexity (MACC) levels, and higher MACC levels were associated with a higher mortality rate. The most common procedure was the Norwood operation (16.5%), with the worst outcome (5.5% survival). Bleeding and renal complications were the most common complications affecting outcomes. Results were more satisfactory in patients with biventricular repair, childhood, and lower MACC levels. Early initiation of ECMO in borderline patients without experiencing cardiac arrest or multiorgan failure may improve outcomes.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Congenital Heart Disease

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is a key therapy in the management of patients with severe cardiac disease or respiratory failure. There are two major forms of MCS commonly employed in the pediatric population—extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and ventricular assist device (VAD). These modalities have overlapping but distinct roles in the management of pediatric patients with severe cardiopulmonary compromise. The use of ECMO to provide circulatory support arose from the development of the first membrane oxygenator by George Clowes in 1957, and subsequent incorporation into pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) by Dorson and colleagues. The first successful application of ECMO in children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery was reported by Baffes et al. in 1970. For the ensuing nearly two decades, ECMO was performed sparingly and only in specialized centers with varying degrees of success. The formation of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) in 1989 allowed for the collation of ECMO-related data across multiple centers for the first time. This facilitated development of consensus guidelines for the use of ECMO in various populations. Coupled with improving ECMO technology, these advances resulted in significant improvements in ECMO utilization, morbidity, and mortality. This article will review the use of ECMO in children with congenital heart disease.

Postcardiotomy Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support in Patients with Congenital Heart Disease

Background

This study investigated mortality and morbidity in patients requiring post-cardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support after operations for congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods

CHD patients requiring postoperative ECMO support between May 2011 and May 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into non-survivors and survivors to hospital discharge. Survival outcomes and associations of various factors with in-hospital death were analyzed.

Results

Fifty patients required postoperative ECMO support. Patients' median age and weight at the time of ECMO insertion were 1.85 months (interquartile range [IQR], 0.23-14.5 months) and 3.84 kg (IQR, 3.08-7.88 kg), respectively. Twenty-nine patients (58%) were male. The median duration of ECMO support was 6 days (IQR, 3-12 days). Twenty-nine patients (58%) died on ECMO support or after ECMO weaning, and 21 (42%) survived to hospital discharge. Postoperative complications included renal failure (n=33, 66%), bleeding (n=11, 22%), and sepsis (n=15, 30%). Prolonged ECMO support (p=0.017), renal failure (p=0.005), continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) application (p=0.001), sepsis (p=0.012), bleeding (p=0.032), and high serum lactate (p=0.002) and total bilirubin (p=0.017) levels during ECMO support were associated with higher mortality risk in a univariate analysis. A multivariable analysis identified CRRT application (p=0.013) and a high serum total bilirubin level (p=0.001) as independent risk factors for death.

Conclusion

Postcardiotomy ECMO should be considered as an important therapeutic modality for patients unresponsive to conventional management. ECMO implementation strategies and management in appropriate patients without severe complications, particularly renal failure and/or liver failure, are crucial for achieving positive outcomes.

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: Special reference for use in 'post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock' - A review with an Indian perspective

The ultimate goals of cardiovascular physiology are to ensure adequate end-organ perfusion to satisfy the local metabolic demand, to maintain homeostasis and achieve 'milieu intérieur'. Cardiogenic shock is a state of pump failure which results in tissue hypoperfusion and its associated complications. There are a wide variety of causes which lead to this deranged physiology, and one such important and common scenario is the post-cardiotomy state which is encountered in cardiac surgical units. Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is an important modality of managing post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock with variable outcomes which would otherwise be universally fatal. VA-ECMO is considered as a double-edged sword with the advantages of luxurious perfusion while providing an avenue for the failing heart to recover, but with the problems of anticoagulation, inflammatory and adverse systemic effects. Optimal outcomes after VA-ECMO are heavily reliant on a multitude of factors and require a multi-disciplinary team to handle them. This article aims to provide an insight into the pathophysiology of VA-ECMO, cannulation techniques, commonly encountered problems, monitoring, weaning strategies and ethical considerations along with a literature review of current evidence-based practices.

Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Patients: A Pilot Study

In this pilot study, we evaluated the long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in neonatal and pediatric patients supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and aimed to identify the role of post-ECMO magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in predicting neurodevelopmental outcomes. Twenty-nine patients were evaluated using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition (ASQ-3) screening tool. Thirteen were evaluated during their visit at the neurodevelopmental clinic and 16 were interviewed via phone. We also reviewed the post-ECMO MRI brain of these patients and scored the severity of their injury based on the neuroimaging findings. In our cohort of 29 patients, 10 patients (34%) had developmental delay. Of those with developmental delay, 80% were newborns. Sixty-seven percent of patients with developmental delay had moderate to severe MRI abnormalities as compared with only 18% with no developmental deficits (p = 0.03). The younger the age at the time of placement on ECMO, the higher the chances of impaired neurodevelopmental outcome. Long-term follow-up of patients who have survived ECMO, with standardized neuropsychologic testing and post-ECMO imaging, should become the standard of care to improve long-term outcomes. Significant abnormalities on brain MRIs done before discharge correlated with developmental delay on follow-up.

Use of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation After Congenital Heart Disease Repair: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been widely used to treat cardiopulmonary failure in patients with congenital heart defects (CHD) postoperatively. A meta-analysis is performed for outcomes of postoperative CHD patients on ECMO. Methods: Electronic databases, including PubMed, EMbase, and Cochrane Library CENTRAL were searched systematically from January 1990 to June 2020 for literature which reported the outcomes of postoperative CHD cases on ECMO. The scope of this search was restricted to articles published in English. Results: Forty-three studies were included in this study, involving 3,585 subjects. Postoperative ventricular failure with low cardiac output was the most common indication of ECMO initiation. The pooled estimated incidence of in-hospital mortality was 56.8% (95% CI, 52.5-61.0%). Bleeding was the most common complication with ECMO with an incidence of 47.1% (95% CI, 38.5-55.8%). Multivariate meta-regression analysis revealed that single ventricular physiology (coefficient 0.213, 95% CI 0.099-0.327, P = 0.001) and renal failure (coefficient 0.315, 95% CI 0.091-0.540, P = 0.008) were two independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: There is an overall high in-hospital mortality of 56.8% in postoperative CHD patients on ECMO. Bleeding is the most common complication during ECMO running with an incidence of 47.1%. Single ventricular physiology and renal failure, as two independent risk factors, may potentially increase in-hospital mortality. Further studies exploring the differences in outcomes between ECMO and other extracorporeal life support strategies are warranted.

Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation with low pump flow for blocked modified Blalock-Taussig shunt followed by spontaneous recanalization

A 2-week-old male newborn with a double inlet left ventricle developed a cardiac arrest following modified Blalock-Taussig anastomosis in pediatric intensive care unit. Probable causes of the arrest were hemodynamic instability and thrombosed shunt, which was later recanalized on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy, which was successfully used with a pump flow lower than recommended in these patients-without the shunt clip, but without any complications.

Structured review of post-cardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: Part 2-pediatric patients

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is established therapy for short-term circulatory support for children with life-treating cardiorespiratory dysfunction. In children with congenital heart disease (CHD), ECMO is commonly used to support patients with post-cardiotomy shock or complications including intractable arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and acute respiratory failure. Cannulation configurations include central, when the right atrium and aorta are utilized in patients with recent sternotomy, or peripheral, when cannulation of the neck or femoral vessels are used in non-operative patients. ECMO can be used to support any form of cardiac disease, including univentricular palliated circulation. Although veno-arterial ECMO is commonly used to support children with CHD, veno-venous ECMO has been used in selected patients with hypoxemia or ventilatory failure in the presence of good cardiac function. ECMO use and outcomes in the CHD population are mainly informed by single-center studies and reports from collated registry data. Significant knowledge gaps remain, including optimal patient selection, timing of ECMO deployment, duration of support, anti-coagulation, complications, and the impact of these factors on short- and long-term outcomes. This report, therefore, aims to present a comprehensive overview of the available literature informing patient selection, ECMO management, and in-hospital and early post-discharge outcomes in pediatric patients treated with ECMO for post-cardiotomy cardiorespiratory failure.

Outcomes of early versus delayed initiation of extracorporeal life support in cardiac surgery

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation offers temporary hemodynamic support for patients with refractory cardiogenic shock after cardiovascular surgery. However, the initiation time for such patients is controversial. Changing the initiation time might improve the outcomes. This study aimed to investigate whether early extracorporeal membrane oxygenation could improve postoperative outcomes in patients at a high risk of cardiogenic shock.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 173 patients with cardiovascular diseases at a high risk of refractory cardiogenic shock which assessed via empirical risk evaluation from 2010 to 2017 were included. After propensity matching, 36 patients, who were matched to patients initiated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after cardiovascular operation (delayed extracorporeal membrane oxygenation group, n = 36), were also initiated with such early in the operating room (early extracorporeal membrane oxygenation group, n = 36). The primary outcome was death. The secondary outcomes included receiving continuous renal replacement therapy, ventricular arrhythmia, and pulmonary infection.

Results

The demographic and baseline variables were similar between the matched groups. The early extracorporeal membrane oxygenation group showed lower mortality (69.44% vs 41.67%, P = 0.03), pulmonary infection morbidity (86.11% vs 55.56%, P < 0.01), and continuous renal replacement therapy rate(88.89% vs 66.67%, P = 0.04). Moreover, they showed improved cardiac index (P = 0.01) and lactate clearance (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation provides effective support for cardiogenic failure refractory to medical management; early initiation improves cardiac output and promotes lactate clearance, thus increasing survival in patients with cardiogenic shock after cardiovascular surgery.

Trial registration

This is a retrospective study. It was not registered.

Prognostic Risk Analyses for Postcardiotomy Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Children: A Review of Early and Intermediate Outcomes

We evaluated the morbidity and mortality of children requiring postcardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to determine independent factors affecting early and intermediate outcomes. Between January 2002 and December 2015, 79 instances of ECMO after cardiac surgery in 73 children were retrospectively reviewed. Follow-up was completed in December 2016. Predictive risk analyses were employed concerning weaning of ECMO, hospital discharge, and mortality after discharge. Age and weight were 14.9 ± 25.6 months and 7.0 ± 5.3 kg, respectively. Median support time was 8.3 ± 4.4 days. Sixty-seven (85%) were successfully weaned off ECMO and 48 (61%) survived to hospital discharge. Multi-variate logistic regression analysis identified the first day to obtain negative fluid balance after initiation of support (adjusted odds ratio = 0.42), high serum lactate levels (0.97), and high total bilirubin (0.84) during support as significant independent factors associated with successful separation from ECMO. The first day of negative fluid balance (0.65) after successful decannulation was an independent risk factor for survival to hospital discharge. After hospital discharge, actuarial 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year survival rates were 94%, 78%, and 78%, respectively. Low weight increased the risk of death after hospital discharge by a multi-variate Cox hazard model. High serum lactate, high serum bilirubin, and unable to obtain early negative fluid balance during support impacted mortality of decannulation. Obtaining a late negative fluid balance in post-ECMO were independent risk factors for death after successful weaning. Low weight affected intermediate outcomes.

Neonatal Cardiac ECMO in 2019 and Beyond

Worldwide, the use of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) for cardiac failure has been steadily increasing in the neonatal population and has become a widely accepted modality. Especially in centers caring for children with (congenital) heart disease, ECMO is now an essential part of care available for those with severe heart failure as a bridge to recovery, long term mechanical support, or transplantation. Short-term outcomes depend very much on indication. Hospital survival is ~40% for all neonatal cardiac ECMO patients combined. ECMO is being used for pre- and/or post-operative stabilization in neonates with congenital heart disease and in neonates with medical heart disease such as myocarditis, cardiomyopathy or refractory arrhythmias. ECMO use during resuscitation (ECPR) or for sepsis is summarized elsewhere in this special edition of Frontiers in Pediatrics. In this review article, we will discuss the indications for neonatal cardiac ECMO, the difficult process of patients' selection and identifying the right timing to initiate ECMO, as well as outline pros and cons for peripheral vs. central cannulation. We will present predictors of mortality and, very importantly, predictors of survival: what can be done to improve the outcomes for your patients. Furthermore, an overview of current insights regarding supportive care in neonatal cardiac ECMO is given. Additionally, we will address issues specific to neonates with single ventricle physiology on ECMO, for example cannulation strategies and the influence of shunt type (Blalock-Taussig shunt vs. "right ventricle to pulmonary artery" shunt). We will not only focus on short term outcomes, such as hospital survival, but also on the importance of long-term neuro-developmental outcomes, and we will end this review with suggestions for future research.

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome: from fetus to fontan

The care of children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome is constantly evolving. Prenatal diagnosis of hypoplastic left heart syndrome will aid in counselling of parents, and selected fetuses may be candidates for in utero intervention. Following birth, palliation can be undertaken through staged operations: Norwood (or hybrid) in the 1st week of life, superior cavopulmonary connection at 4-6 months of life, and finally total cavopulmonary connection (Fontan) at 2-4 years of age. Children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome are at risk of circulatory failure their entire life, and selected patients may undergo heart transplantation. In this review article, we summarise recent advances in the critical care management of patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome as were discussed in a focused session at the 12th International Conference of the Paediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Society held on 9 December, 2016, in Miami Beach, Florida.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, Berlin, and ventricular assist devices: a primer for the cardiologist

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) has become an indispensable tool in the management of children with impending respiratory and cardiac failure. Though extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was classically the only form of support available to pediatric patients, considerable advances have allowed ventricular assist devices (VADs) to become increasingly utilized in children. This review provides an update of recent advances in ECMO and VAD management in children.

RECENT FINDINGS

The options for mechanical support in infants and small children with end-stage heart failure are limited. As such, the greatest advances in the past decade have come in the successful adoption of the Berlin Heart EXCOR device, with a marked improvement in survival to transplant over ECMO. Further advances have been made in the use of adult VADs in children. For instance, the HeartWare HVAD has been utilized in children as young as 3 years of age, despite being designed for use in adult patients.

SUMMARY

The availability of mechanical support options for children remains limited to ECMO and a small number of VADs. While outcomes of VAD support in pediatric patients have been promising, further study in smaller and more complex pediatric patients is necessary.

Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support

Over the past two decades clinicians and researchers have sought to bring mechanical circulatory support (MCS) to pediatric patients with heart failure. ECMO, IABPs, and VADs have all been used in infants and children as a bridge to myocardial recovery or as a bridge to transplant. However, until recently, a commitment by industry, government, and researchers towards the development of pediatric MCS has not been present, especially in the United States. Advancements in adult VAD design to smaller, quieter, and fully implantable pumps capable of complete outpatient support have sparked curiosity in the application of this technology to children. Also, the increasing success of palliating congenital heart disease is creating an ever-growing cohort of children and adolescents with heart failure. These changing demographics and technological advances have caused a refocus of attention. This is most clearly demonstrated by the international use of several established MCS pediatric and neonatal systems, by the FDA's increasing proclivity to allow the use of international pediatric VADs in the USA, and by the recent National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute funding of several institutions to develop pediatric VADs. This review describes the different aspects of pediatric MCS including indications, the features of the various VADs, and their current application in children worldwide.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in pediatric cardiac surgery: A retrospective review of trends and outcomes in Scotland

Introduction:

Around 3.2%–8.4% of patients receive venoarterial (VA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support after pediatric cardiac surgery. The desired outcome is “bridge-to-recovery” in most cases. There is no universally agreed protocol, and given the associated costs and complications rates, the decisions as of when and when not to institute VA ECMO are largely empirical.

Methods:

A retrospective review of the ECMO database at the Scottish Pediatric Cardiac Services (SPCS) was undertaken. Inclusion criterion encompassed all children (<16 years of age) who were supported with VA ECMO following cardiac surgery between January 2011 and October 2016. The timing of ECMO support was divided into three distinct phases: “endofcase” or intheatre ECMO for patients unable to effectively wean from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), ECMO for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (“ECPR”), and Intensive Care Unit ECMO for “failing maximal medial therapy” following cardiac surgery. The patients were analyzed to identify survival rates, adverse prognostic indicators, and complication rates.

Results:

We identified 66 patients who met the inclusion criterion. 30day survival rate was 45% and survival rate to hospital discharge was 44% (the difference represents one patient). On followup (median: 960 days, range: 42–2010 days), all survivors to hospital discharge were alive at review date. “End-of-case” ECMO showed a trend toward better survival of the three subcategories (“end of case,” ECPR, and ECMO for “failing maximal medical therapy” survival rates were 47%, 41%, and 37.5%, respectively, P = 0.807). The poorest survival rates were in the younger children (<6 months, P = 0.502), patients who had prolonged CPB (P = 0.314) and aortic crossclamp times (P = 0.146), and longer duration of ECMO (>10 days, P = 0.177).

Conclusions:

Allcomers VA ECMO following pediatric cardiac surgery had survival to discharge rate of 44%. Elective “end-of-case” ECMO carries better survival rates and therefore ECMO instituted early maybe advantageous. Prolonged ECMO support has a direct correlation with mortality.

Long-Term Outcomes of Pediatric Cardiac Patients Supported by Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

OBJECTIVE

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is an important form of short-term mechanical support in children with cardiac disease, but information on long-term outcomes and quality of life is limited. The primary objective of this study was to determine the long-term outcomes of children previously supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for cardiac etiologies.

DESIGN

A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with cardiac disease managed with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2012, at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Survivors completed patient- and parent-reported verbal and written surveys, and univariate analyses assessed risk factors for long-term outcomes.

SETTING

Tertiary-care children's hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients with cardiac disease managed with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Over 18 years, 396 patients were managed with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with 43% survival to discharge. The median age at cannulation was 78 days. The majority had congenital heart disease (86%), surgery prior to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (71%), and cardiopulmonary arrest as the primary extracorporeal membrane oxygenation indication (53%). With 6-year median follow-up, 66% are known to be deceased, including 38 deaths after hospital discharge. Among survivors at discharge, 65 (38%) completed the phone survey, and 33 (19%) completed the written survey. Negative clinical outcomes, defined as having at least significant physical limitations or "fair" or "poor" health, were present in 18% of patients. No patient- or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation-related variables were associated with negative outcomes in univariate analyses. There were significantly lower self-reported and parent-reported written Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory quality of life scores in children compared with healthy individual normative data but no differences in adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series of pediatric cardiac patients supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, mortality was 66% with 6-year median follow-up. The majority reported positive outcomes with respect to health and physical limitations, but children reported lower quality of life compared with healthy individuals.

Association of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support Adequacy and Residual Lesions With Outcomes in Neonates Supported After Cardiac Surgery

OBJECTIVES

There is a paucity of data regarding the impact of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support, adequacy of surgical repair, and timing of intervention for residual structural lesions in neonates cannulated to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after cardiac surgery. Our goal was to determine how these factors were associated with survival.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Cardiovascular ICU.

SUBJECTS

Neonates (≤ 28 d old) with congenital heart disease cannulated to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after cardiac surgery during 2006-2013.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Eighty-four neonates were cannulated to venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after cardiac surgery. Survival to discharge was 50%. There was no difference in survival based on surgical complexity and those with single or biventricular congenital heart disease. Prematurity (≤ 36 wk gestation; odds ratio, 2.33; p = 0.01), preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation pH less than or equal to 7.17 (odds ratio, 2.01; p = 0.04), need for inotrope support during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (odds ratio, 3.99; p = 0.03), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation duration greater than 168 hours (odds ratio, 2.04; p = 0.04) were all associated with increased mortality. Although preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation lactate was not significantly different between survivors and nonsurvivors, unresolved lactic acidosis greater than or equal to 72 hours after cannulation (odds ratio, 2.77; p = 0.002) was associated with increased mortality. Finally, many patients (n = 70; 83%) were noted to have residual lesions after cardiac surgery, and time to diagnosis or correction of residual lesions was significantly shorter in survivors (1 vs 2 d; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that clearance of lactate is an important therapeutic target for patients cannulated to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. In addition, timely identification of residual lesions and expedient interventions on those lesions may improve survival.

Factors Associated With Mortality in Neonates Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Cardiac Indications: Analysis of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Registry Data

OBJECTIVES

Survival among neonates supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for cardiac indications is 39%. Previous single-center studies have identified factors associated with mortality, but a comprehensive multivariate analysis is not available for this population. Understanding factors associated with mortality may help design treatment strategies, determine optimal timing for cannulation, and inform patient selection. This study identifies factors associated with mortality in neonates supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for cardiac indications.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Two hundred and thirty U.S. and international centers reporting extracorporeal membrane oxygenation data to the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization.

SUBJECTS

Four thousand and four seventy one neonates with congenital and acquired cardiac disease supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for cardiac indications during 2001-2011.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

The primary outcome measure was mortality prior to hospital discharge. Overall hospital mortality was 59%. Demographic and preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation factors associated with mortality were evaluated in a multivariable model. Factors associated with death prior to hospital discharge included lower body weight, earlier era, single ventricle physiology, lower preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation arterial pH, and longer time from intubation to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation. Lower pH was associated with increased mortality regardless of cardiac diagnosis and surgical complexity. The majority of survivors separated from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation less than 8 days after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation deployment.

CONCLUSIONS

Mortality for neonates supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for cardiac indications is high. Severity of preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation acidosis was independently associated with increased risk of mortality. Earlier initiation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may reduce the degree and duration of acidosis and may improve survival. Further studies are needed to determine optimal timing of cannulation in this population.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenator support in infants with systemic-pulmonary shunts

BACKGROUND

Management of a patent systemic-pulmonary (SP) shunt and the resulting runoff during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) varies among institutions. We have used a strategy of increased flow without surgical reduction of the shunt diameter, and here report our results with this strategy.

METHODS

In this database review of 169 successive veno-arterial ECMO runs performed between 2002 and 2013 in infants and neonates, ECMO flow, time to achieve lactate clearance, normal pH, and negative fluid balance were compared in patients with shunts and those without shunts.

RESULTS

Fifty-one of 169 infants (30.2%) had a shunt in situ when ECMO was initiated. Significantly higher ECMO flows were maintained in the shunt group compared with the nonshunt group (161 ± 43 mL/kg/minute vs 134 ± 41 mL/kg/minute; P < .001). Infants with shunts had significantly higher pre-ECMO and peak lactate levels (12.4 ± 5.6 mmol/L vs 10.0 ± 6.3 mmol/L; P < .05 and 13.7 ± 4.9 mmol/L vs 11.6 ± 5.5 mmol/L; P < .02, respectively) and required a longer period of support for clearance (median, 28.8 hours [16.1-63.3 hours] vs 17.5 hours [10.8-34.5 hours]; P < .001). Although the absolute rate of lactate clearance was not significantly different between the 2 groups (median, 0.46 mmol/L/hour [0.12-0.72 mmol/L/hour] vs 0.48 mmol/L/hour [0.22-0.86 mmol/L/hour]; P = .139) the presence of a shunt, neonatal age, peak lactate, extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of hemofiltration on ECMO significantly predicted the rate of clearance. Survival to hospital discharge was similar in the shunt and nonshunt groups (49.0% vs 48.3%; P = .932).

CONCLUSIONS

A strategy of increased ECMO flow without surgically restricting shunt diameter appears to be successful in providing circulatory support in the majority of patients with an SP shunt. Equivalent survival suggests that routine surgical reduction of shunt diameter is not indicated.

Venovenous Extracorporeal Life Support in Single-Ventricle Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

There is new and growing experience with venovenous extracorporeal life support (VV ECLS) for neonatal and pediatric patients with single-ventricle physiology and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Outcomes in this population have been defined but could be improved; survival rates in single-ventricle patients on VV ECLS for respiratory failure are slightly higher than those in single-ventricle patients on venoarterial ECLS for cardiac failure (48 vs. 32-43%), but are lower than in patients with biventricular anatomy (58-74%). To that end, special consideration is necessary for patients with single-ventricle physiology who require VV ECLS for ARDS. Specifically, ARDS disrupts the balance between pulmonary and systemic blood flow through dynamic alterations in cardiopulmonary mechanics. This complexity impacts how to run the VV ECLS circuit and the transition back to conventional support. Furthermore, these patients have a complicated coagulation profile. Both venous and arterial thrombi carry marked risk in single-ventricle patients due to the vulnerability of the pulmonary, coronary, and cerebral circulations. Finally, single-ventricle palliation requires the preservation of low resistance across the pulmonary circulation, unobstructed venous return, and optimal cardiac performance including valve function. As such, the proper timing as well as the particular conduct of ECLS might differ between this population and patients without single-ventricle physiology. The goal of this review is to summarize the current state of knowledge of VV ECLS in the single-ventricle population in the context of these special considerations.

ECLS in Pediatric Cardiac Patients

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is an important device in the management of children with severe refractory cardiac and or pulmonary failure. Actually, two forms of ECLS are available for neonates and children: extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and use of a ventricular assist device (VAD). Both these techniques have their own advantages and disadvantages. The intra-aortic balloon pump is another ECLS device that has been successfully used in larger children, adolescents, and adults, but has found limited applicability in smaller children. In this review, we will present the "state of art" of ECMO in neonate and children with heart failure. ECMO is commonly used in a variety of settings to provide support to critically ill patients with cardiac disease. However, a strict selection of patients and timing of intervention should be performed to avoid the increase in mortality and morbidity of these patients. Therefore, every attempt should be done to start ECLS "urgently" rather than "emergently," before the presence of dysfunction of end organs or circulatory collapse. Even though exciting progress is being made in the development of VADs for long-term mechanical support in children, ECMO remains the mainstay of mechanical circulatory support in children with complex anatomy, particularly those needing rapid resuscitation and those with a functionally univentricular circulation. With the increase in familiarity with ECMO, new indications have been added, such as extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). The literature supporting ECPR is increasing in children. Reasonable survival rates have been achieved after initiation of support during active compressions of the chest following in-hospital cardiac arrest. Contraindications to ECLS have reduced in the last 5 years and many centers support patients with functionally univentricular circulations. Improved results have been recently achieved in this complex subset of patients.

Late Outcomes of Infants Supported by Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Following the Norwood Operation

Background:

Hospital survival for infants who require extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) following the Norwood operation is 30% to 60%. However, little is known about late outcomes of hospital survivors and their ability to progress through subsequent palliative stages.

Methods:

Between 2002 and 2012, 38 (13.4%) of the 284 neonates with hypoplastic left heart syndrome or other single ventricle variants received ECMO support following Norwood. We examined factors affecting hospital death and compared postdischarge events between hospital survivors who received postoperative ECMO (n = 16 of 38) and a control of hospital survivors who did not receive ECMO (220 of 246).

Results:

Unplanned cardiac reoperation was the only predictor of postoperative ECMO requirement. Overall, 22 (58%) of the 38 patients were weaned from ECMO support and 16 (42%) of the 38 survived to hospital discharge. The ECMO duration was a significant factor for hospital mortality (odds ratio = 1.52 per 1-day increase [1.03-2.24], P = .035). Following discharge, 15 (94%) of the 16 underwent Glenn and 1 (6%) of the 16 had interstage mortality. In the control group, 194 (88%) of the 220 underwent Glenn and 26 (12%) of the 220 had interstage mortality or received transplantation ( P = .499). Following Glenn, 3 (20%) of the 15 patients had interstage mortality or received transplantation and 12 (80%) of the 15 proceeded to Fontan or were alive awaiting Fontan. In the control group, 23 (12%) of the 194 had interstage mortality or received transplantation and 171 (88%) proceeded to Fontan or were alive awaiting Fontan ( P = .357). Overall, 81% of hospital survivors were alive 5 years following discharge in both ECMO and non-ECMO groups.

Conclusions:

ECMO support following Norwood is associated with high probability of hospital death. Nonetheless, interstage mortality, progression to subsequent palliative stages, intermediate survival, and freedom from heart transplantation are comparable to those in patients who did not require postoperative ECMO support.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Single Ventricle Lesions Palliated Via the Hybrid Approach

Background:

Describing outcomes for children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) undergoing hybrid palliation (pulmonary artery band and stent placement in the patent ductus arteriosus) requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support for cardiorespiratory failure.

Methods:

We reviewed the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization database for all patients with a diagnosis of an HLHS undergoing hybrid stage 1 palliation supported with ECMO and those patients with hybrid palliation supported with ECMO after comprehensive stage 2 palliation. Patients were identified using a combination of International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and registry diagnosis and procedure codes. We report survival to hospital discharge and ECMO complications.

Results:

We identified 44 patients with HLHS requiring ECMO following stage 1 hybrid approach. Median age at cannulation was 13.5 days. Only 16% survived to hospital discharge. In all, 20 (50%) patients had a cardiac arrest prior to going onto ECMO and for 3 (19%) patients, ECMO was initiated during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Conclusions:

Overall survival for ECMO support in patients with HLHS palliated via the hybrid approach is very poor (16%) and is worse than 31% survival reported for ECMO after conventional stage 1 palliation. The reasons for these poor outcomes require further investigation.

Extracorporeal life support for the neonatal cardiac patient: outcomes and new directions

Extracorporeal life support is an important therapy for neonates with life-threatening cardiopulmonary failure. Utilization of extracorporeal life support in neonates with congenital heart disease has increased dramatically during the past three decades. Despite increased usage, overall survival in these patients has changed very little and extracorporeal life support-related morbidity, including bleeding, neurologic injury, and renal failure, remains a major problem. Although survival is lower and neurologic complications are higher in premature infants than term infants, cardiac extracorporeal life support including extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation is effective in preventing death in many of these high-risk patients. Miniaturized ventricular assist devices and compact integrated extracorporeal life support systems are being developed to provide additional therapeutic options for neonates.

Neurologic complications and neurodevelopmental outcome with extracorporeal life support

Extracorporeal life support is used to support patients of all ages with refractory cardiac and/or respiratory failure. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been used to rescue patients whose predicted mortality would have otherwise been high. It is associated with acute central nervous system (CNS) complications and with long- term neurologic morbidity. Many patients treated with ECMO have acute neurologic complications, including seizures, hemorrhage, infarction, and brain death. Various pre-ECMO and ECMO factors have been found to be associated with neurologic injury, including acidosis, renal failure, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and modality of ECMO used. The risk of neurologic complication appears to vary by age of the patient, with neonates appearing to have the highest risk of acute central nervous system complications. Acute CNS injuries are associated with increased risk of death in a patient who has received ECMO support. ECMO is increasingly used during cardiopulmonary resuscitation when return of spontaneous circulation is not achieved rapidly and outcomes may be good in select populations. Economic analyses have shown that neonatal and adult respiratory ECMO are cost effective. There have been several intriguing reports of active physical rehabilitation of patients during ECMO support that is well tolerated and may improve recovery. Although there is evidence that some patients supported with ECMO appear to have very good outcomes, there is limited understanding of the long-term impact of ECMO on quality of life and long-term cognitive and physical functioning for many groups, especially the cardiac and pediatric populations. This deserves further study.

Extracorporeal life support after cardiac surgery in children: outcomes from a single institution

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is used after congenital heart surgery for several indications, including failure to separate from cardiopulmonary bypass, postoperative low cardiac output syndrome, and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Here, we assessed the outcomes of ECLS in children after cardiac surgery at our institution. Medical records of all children who required postoperative ECLS at our institution were reviewed. Between 2003 and 2011, 36 (1.4%) of 2541 pediatric cardiac surgical cases required postoperative ECLS. Median age of patients was 64 days (range: 0 days-4.1 years). ECLS was in the form of either extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO; n = 24) or ventricular assist system (VAS; n = 12). Mean duration of ECLS was 4.9 ± 4.2 days. Overall, 21 patients (58%) were weaned off ECLS, and 17 patients (47%) were successfully discharged from the hospital. Patients with biventricular heart (BVH) had higher survival-to-hospital discharge rates compared with those with univentricular heart (UVH) (P = 0.019). Regarding ECLS type, UVH patients who received VAS showed higher rates of device discontinuation than UVH patients who received ECMO (P = 0.012). However, rates of hospital discharge were not significantly different between UVH patients who received VAS or ECMO. Surgical interventions, such as banding of Blalock-Taussig shunt to reduce pulmonary blood flow or placing bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt to minimize ventricular volume overload, were effective for weaning off ECLS in patients with UVH. ECLS is beneficial to children with low cardiac output after cardiac surgery. Rates of survival-to-hospital discharge were higher in BVH patients than UVH patients. Additional interventions to reduce ventricular volume load may be effective for discontinuing ECLS in patients with UVH.

Pediatric extracorporeal life support in specialized situations

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this review was to provide a systematic review of the literature regarding the use of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) in various specialized conditions, as part of the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Society/Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Joint Statement on Mechanical Circulatory Support.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE and PubMed.

STUDY SELECTION

Searches for published abstracts and articles were conducted using the following MeSH terms: extracorporeal life support, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or mechanical support, and pediatric or children.

DATA EXTRACTION

Abstracts of all articles including case reports were reviewed; the full article was reviewed if the abstract indicated that it focused on extracorporeal life support for conditions other than primary respiratory disease or persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn and described outcomes such as survival to hospital discharge. Studies with potential overlapping patients were highlighted in the review process and summary results.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Classification of recommendations and level of evidence are expressed in the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association format.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of specialized situations where extracorporeal life support is used fall into the category of class II-III evidence. Class I indications for extracorporeal life support in the pediatric population include myocarditis and in the context of acute interventions in the cardiac catheterization laboratory.

Outcomes following extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in children with cardiac disease

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a commonly used form of mechanical circulatory support in children with congenital or acquired heart disease and cardiac failure refractory to conventional medical therapies. In children with heart disease who suffer cardiac arrest, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has been successfully used to provide cardiopulmonary support when conventional resuscitation has failed to establish return of spontaneous circulation. Survival to hospital discharge for children with heart disease support is approximately 40% but varies widely based on age, indication for support, and underlying cardiac disease. Although extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is lifesaving in many instances, it is associated with many complications and is expensive. Thus, a clear understanding of survival to discharge and long-term functional and neurologic outcomes are essential to guide the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation now and in the future. This review, part of the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Society/Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Joint Statement on Mechanical Circulatory Support, summarizes current knowledge on short- and long-term outcomes for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation used to support children with cardiac disease.

Extended survival and re-hospitalisation among paediatric patients requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for primary cardiac dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Although survival to hospital discharge among children requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support for medical and surgical cardio-circulatory failure has been reported in international registries, extended survival and re-hospitalisation rates have not been well described in the literature.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This is a single-institution, retrospective review of all paediatric patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for primary cardiac dysfunction over a 5-year period.

RESULTS

A total of 74 extracorporeal membrane oxygenation runs in 68 patients were identified, with a median follow-up of 5.4 years from hospital discharge. Overall, 66% of patients were decannulated alive and 25 patients (37%) survived to discharge. There were three late deaths at 5 months, 20 months, and 6.8 years from discharge. Of the hospital survivors, 88% required re-hospitalisation, with 63% of re-admissions for cardiac indications. The median number of hospitalisations per patient per year was 0.62, with the first re-admission occurring at a mean time of 9 months after discharge from the index hospitalisation. In all, 38% of patients required further cardiac surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Extended survival rates for paediatric hospital survivors of cardiac extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support for medical and post-surgical indications are encouraging. However, re-hospitalisation within the first year following hospital discharge is common, and many patients require further cardiac surgery. Although re-admission hospital mortality is low, longer-term follow-up of quality-of-life indicators is required

Short- and intermediate-term survival after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in children with cardiac disease

OBJECTIVES

In children with cardiac disease, common indications for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) include refractory cardiopulmonary resuscitation (E-CPR), failure to separate from cardiopulmonary bypass (OR-ECMO), and low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS-ECMO). Despite established acceptance, ECMO outcomes are suboptimal with a survival between 38% and 55%. We evaluated factors associated with significantly increased survival in cardiac patients requiring ECMO.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective investigation of consecutive patients undergoing ECMO between 2006 and 2010. Demographic, pre-ECMO, ECMO, and post-ECMO parameters were analyzed. Neurologic outcomes were assessed with the pediatric overall performance category scale at the latest follow-up.

RESULTS

There were 3524 admissions, 95 (3%) of which necessitated ECMO; 40 (42%) E-CPR, 31 (33%) OR-ECMO, and 24 (25%) LCOS-ECMO. The overall hospital survival was 73%. The within-groups hospital survival was 75% in E-CPR, 77% OR-ECMO and 62% LCOS-ECMO. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, chromosomal anomalies (odds ratio [OR], 8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2-35), single ventricle (OR ,6; 95% CI, 3-33), multiple ECMO runs (OR, 15; 95% CI, 4-42), higher 24-hour ECMO flows (OR, 8; 95% CI, 4-22), decreased lung compliance (OR, 5; 95% CI, 2-16), and need for plasma exchange (OR, 5; 95% CI, 3-18) were all significant factors associated with mortality. From the univariate analysis, a common parameter associated with mortality within all groups was intracranial hemorrhage. At 1.9 years (0.9, 2.9) of follow-up, 66% were still alive, and 89% of survivors had normal function or only mild neurodevelopmental disability.

CONCLUSIONS

ECMO was successfully used in children with cardiac disease with 73% and 66% short- and intermediate-term survival, respectively. The majority of the survivors had normal function or only a minimal neurodevelopmental deficit.

Pediatric outcomes after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for cardiac disease and for cardiac arrest: a review

We reviewed reported survival and neurological outcomes, and predictors of these outcomes for pediatric cardiac extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). We searched PubMed from 2000 to April 2011. Cumulative survival after cardiac ECMO in children was 788/1755 (45%); renal dysfunction, dialysis, neurologic complication, lactate, and ECMO duration consistently predicted this outcome, whereas single ventricle and ECPR did not. Neurological outcomes after cardiac ECMO were based on poorly described telephone questions in two studies for 47 patients with 51% significantly impaired and detailed follow-up testing for 42 patients in three studies with mental delay in 38% and mental score >85 (average or above) in 33%. Cumulative survival after ECPR in children was 371/762 (49%); noncardiac disease, renal dysfunction, neurologic complication, and pH on extracorporeal life support consistently predicted this outcome, whereas duration of CPR did not. Neurological outcomes after ECPR were based predominantly on the pediatric cerebral performance category (PCPC) score by chart review, with 161/181 (79%) having PCPC <2. No study reported detailed follow-up testing for survivors of ECPR. Survival outcomes of most cardiac subgroups were similar, except for concerning mortality in cavopulmonary connection patients. Priority areas for study include identification of potentially modifiable predictors of long-term outcomes.

Outcomes of infants weighing three kilograms or less requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is the most common form of cardiac support for postcardiotomy cardiac failure in children. While its benefits have been thoroughly explored in infants weighing more than 3 kg, similar analyses are lacking in lower weight neonates. This single-center study investigated outcomes and risks for poor survival among infants weighing 3 kg or less.

METHODS

A retrospective review of infants 3 kg or less who required postcardiotomy ECMO support was performed (January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2010). Primary outcome was 30-day survival after decannulation. Factors analyzed for association with poor outcome included demographics, cardiac anatomy, bypass and circulatory arrest times, total ECMO support time, postoperative lactate, inotrope use, and need for renal replacement therapy.

RESULTS

During the study period, 64 patients weighing 3 kg or less required postcardiotomy ECMO. Median gestational age and age at ECMO initiation were 38 weeks (interquartile range, 36 to 39) and 7 days (interquartile range, 4 to 9), respectively, with median ECMO support time of 164 hours (interquartile range, 95 to 231). Overall 30-day survival after decannulation was 33%. Factors associated with poor outcome were longer duration of support (231 hours or more, 12% survival, versus less than 231 hours, 40% survival; p = 0.05) and renal replacement therapy (n = 36, survival 17% versus 54%; p = 0.002). Multivariable regression analysis identified renal replacement therapy as the only independent factor associated with poor survival (odds ratio 4.3, 95% confidence interval: 1.3 to 14.9, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

For infants weighing 3 kg or less, 30-day survival after decannulation after cardiac ECMO is poor. Factors associated with poor prognosis were need for renal replacement therapy and longer duration of ECMO support. These findings may provide a useful guide for medical decision making among this unique, high-risk patient group.

Resuscitation and extracorporeal life support during cardiopulmonary resuscitation following the Norwood (Stage 1) operation

The success of extracorporeal support in providing cardiopulmonary support for a variety of patients has led to use of Extracorporeal Life Support, also known as ECLS, as a rescue for patients failing conventional resuscitation. The use of Extracorporeal Life Support in circumstances of cardiac arrest has come to be termed "Extracorporeal Life Support during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation" or "ECPR". Although Extracorporeal Life Support during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation was originally described in patients following repair of congenital cardiac defects who suffered a sudden arrest, it has now been used in a variety of circumstances for patients both with and without primary cardiac disease. Multiple centres have reported successful use of Extracorporeal Life Support during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in adults and children. However, because of the cost, the complexity of the technique, and the resources required, Extracorporeal Life Support during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is not offered in all centres for paediatric patients with refractory cardiac arrest. The increasing success and availability of Extracorporeal Life Support during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in post-operative cardiac patients, coupled with the fact that patients undergoing the Norwood (Stage 1) operation can have rapid, unpredictable cardiac deterioration and arrest, has led to a steady increase in the use of Extracorporeal Life Support during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in this population. For Extracorporeal Life Support during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation to be most successful, it must be deployed rapidly while the patient is undergoing excellent cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Early activation of the team that will perform cannulation could possibly shorten the duration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and might improve survival and outcome. More research needs to be done to refine the populations and circumstances that offer the best outcome with Extracorporeal Life Support during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, to evaluate the ratios of cost to benefit, and establish the long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in survivors.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support after the Fontan operation

OBJECTIVE

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has been used to support children with cardiac failure after the Fontan operation. Mortality is high, and causes of mortality remain unclear. We evaluated the in-hospital mortality and factors associated with mortality in these patients.

METHODS

Extracorporeal Life Support Organization registry data on patients requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after the Fontan operation from 1987 to 2009 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographics and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation data were compared for survivors and nonsurvivors. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with mortality.

RESULTS

Of 230 patients, 81 (35%) survived to hospital discharge. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was more frequent (34% vs 17%, P = .04), and median fraction of inspired oxygen concentration was higher (1 [confidence interval, 0.9-1.0] vs 0.9 [confidence interval, 0.8-1.0], P = .03) before extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in nonsurvivors compared with survivors. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation duration and incidence of complications, including surgical bleeding, neurologic injury, renal failure, inotrope use on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and bloodstream infection, were higher in nonsurvivors compared with survivors (P < .05 for all). In a multivariable model, neurologic injury (odds ratio, 5.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.97-13.61), surgical bleeding (odds ratio, 2.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.22-4.56), and renal failure (odds ratio, 2.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.41-5.59) increased mortality. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation duration of more than 65 hours to 119 hours (odds ratio, 0.33; 95% confidence interval, 0.14-0.76) was associated with decreased mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiac failure requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after the Fontan operation is associated with high mortality. Complications during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support increase mortality odds. Prompt correction of surgical bleeding when possible may improve survival.

Extracorporeal life support in pediatric cardiac dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Low cardiac output (LCO) after corrective surgery remains a serious complication in pediatric congenital heart diseases (CHD). In the case of refractory LCO, extra corporeal life support (ECLS) extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or ventricle assist devices (VAD) is the final therapeutic option. In the present study we have reviewed the outcomes of pediatric patients after corrective surgery necessitating ECLS and compared outcomes with pediatric patients necessitating ECLS because of dilatated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

METHODS

A retrospective single-centre cohort study was evaluated in pediatric patients, between 1991 and 2008, that required ECLS. A total of 48 patients received ECLS, of which 23 were male and 25 female. The indications for ECLS included CHD in 32 patients and DCM in 16 patients.

RESULTS

The mean age was 1.2 ± 3.9 years for CHD patients and 10.4 ± 5.8 years for DCM patients. Twenty-six patients received ECMO and 22 patients received VAD. A total of 15 patients out of 48 survived, 8 were discharged after myocardial recovery and 7 were discharged after successful heart transplantation. The overall mortality in patients with extracorporeal life support was 68%.

CONCLUSION

Although the use of ECLS shows a significantly high mortality rate it remains the ultimate chance for children. For better results, ECLS should be initiated in the operating room or shortly thereafter. Bridge to heart transplantation should be considered if there is no improvement in cardiac function to avoid irreversible multiorgan failure (MFO).

Part 10: Pediatric basic and advanced life support: 2010 International Consensus on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care Science With Treatment Recommendations

Note From the Writing Group: Throughout this article, the reader will notice combinations of superscripted letters and numbers (eg, “Family Presence During ResuscitationPeds-003”). These callouts are hyperlinked to evidence-based worksheets, which were used in the development of this article. An appendix of worksheets, applicable to this article, is located at the end of the text. The worksheets are available in PDF format and are open access.