Long-term survival outcomes and causes of late death in neonates, infants, and children treated with extracorporeal life support

Long term outcomes in CDH: Cardiopulmonary outcomes and health related quality of life

BACKGROUND

With improvements in clinical management and an increase in CDH survivorship there is a crucial need for better understanding of long-term health outcomes in CDH.

AIM

To investigate the prevalence of cardiopulmonary health morbidity and health related quality of life (HRQoL) in CDH survivors.

METHODS

We included all studies (n = 65) investigating long-term cardiopulmonary outcomes in CDH patients more than 2 years published in the last 30 years. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the CASP checklist for cohort studies were utilized to assess study quality. Results were reported descriptively and collated by age group where possible.

RESULTS

The incidence of pulmonary hypertension was highly variable (4.5-38%), though rates (%) appeared to diminish after 5 years of age. Lung function indices and radiological outcomes were frequently abnormal, and Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) reduced also. Long term diseases notably emphysema and COPD are not yet fully described in the contemporary literature.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores cardiopulmonary health morbidity and a reduced HRQoL among CDH survivors. Where not already available dedicated multidisciplinary follow-up clinics should be established to support these vulnerable patients transition safely into adulthood. Future research is therefore needed to investigate the risk factors for cardiopulmonary ill health and morbidity in CDH survivors.

TYPE OF STUDY

Systematic review of case control and cohort studies.

Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) Guidelines for Follow-up After Neonatal and Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Neonates and children who have survived critical illness severe enough to require extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are at risk for neurologic insults, neurodevelopmental delays, worsening of underlying medical conditions, and development of new medical comorbidities. Structured neurodevelopmental follow-up is recommended for early identification and prompt interventions of any neurodevelopmental delays. Even children who initially survive this critical illness without new medical or neurologic deficits remain at risk of developing new morbidities/delays at least through adolescence, highlighting the importance of structured follow-up by personnel knowledgeable in the sequelae of critical illness and ECMO. Structured follow-up should be multifaceted, beginning predischarge and continuing as a coordinated effort after discharge through adolescence. Predischarge efforts should consist of medical and neurologic evaluations, family education, and co-ordination of long-term ECMO care. After discharge, programs should recommend a compilation of pediatric care, disease-specific care for underlying or acquired conditions, structured ECMO/neurodevelopmental care including school performance, parental education, and support. Institutionally, regionally, and internationally available resources will impact the design of individual center's follow-up program. Additionally, neurodevelopmental testing will need to be culturally and lingually appropriate for centers' populations. Thus, ECMO centers should adapt follow-up program to their specific populations and resources with the predischarge and postdischarge components described here.

Neonatal respiratory and cardiac ECMO in Europe

Neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-saving procedure for critically ill neonates suffering from a potentially reversible disease, causing severe cardiac and/or respiratory failure and refractory to maximal conventional management. Since the 1970s, technology, management, and clinical applications of neonatal ECMO have changed. Pulmonary diseases still represent the principal neonatal diagnosis, with an overall 74% survival rate, and up to one-third of cases are due to congenital diaphragmatic hernia. The overall survival rate in cardiac ECMO is lower, with congenital heart defect representing the main indication. This review provides an overview of the available evidence in the field of neonatal ECMO. We will address the changing epidemiology, basic principles, technologic advances in circuitry, and monitoring, and deliver a current multidisciplinary management framework, focusing on ECMO applications, complications, and long-term morbidities. Lastly, areas for further research will be highlighted.Conclusions: ECMO is a life support with a potential impact on long-term patients' outcomes. In the next years, advances in knowledge, technology, and expertise may push neonatal ECMO boundaries towards more premature and increasingly complex infants, with the final aim to reduce the burden of ECMO-related complications and improve overall patients' outcomes. What is Known: • ECMO is a life-saving option in newborns with refractory respiratory and/or cardiac failure. • The multidisciplinary ECMO management is challenging and may expose neonates to complications with an impact on long-term outcomes. What is New: • Advances in technology and biomaterials will improve neonatal ECMO management and, eventually, the long-term outcome of these complex patients. • Experimental models of artificial placenta and womb technology are under investigation and may provide clinical translation and future research opportunities.

Bridging the Gap Between Intensivists and Primary Care Clinicians in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Respiratory Failure in Children: A Review

IMPORTANCE

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a form of advanced life support that may be used in children with refractory respiratory or cardiac failure. While it is required infrequently, in the US, ECMO is used to support childhood respiratory failure as often as children receive kidney or heart transplants. ECMO is complex, resource intensive, and potentially lifesaving, but it is also associated with risks of short-term complications and long-term adverse effects, most importantly with neurodevelopmental outcomes that are relevant to all pediatric clinicians, even those remote from the child's critical illness.

OBSERVATIONS

The 2009 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic, along with randomized clinical trials of adult respiratory ECMO support and conventional management, have catalyzed sustained growth in the use of ECMO. The adult trials built on earlier neonatal ECMO randomized clinical trials that demonstrated improved survival in severe perinatal lung disease. For children outside of the neonatal period, there appear to have been no respiratory ECMO clinical trials. Applying evidence from adult respiratory failure or perinatal lung disease to children outside the neonatal period has important potential pitfalls. For these children, the underlying diseases and risks of ECMO are different. Despite these differences, both neonates and older children are at risk of neurologic complications, such as intracranial hemorrhage, ischemic stroke, and seizures, and those complications may contribute to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Without specific screening, subtle neurodevelopmental impairments may be missed, but when they are identified, children have the opportunity to receive therapy to optimize long-term development.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

All pediatric clinicians should be aware not only of the potential benefits and complications of ECMO but also that survivors need effective screening, support, and follow-up.

Survival and Developmental Outcomes of Neonates Treated with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A 10-Year Single-Center Experience

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the associations between the primary indication for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in neonates and neurodevelopmental outcomes at 12 and 24 months of age.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study of neonates treated with ECMO between January 2006 and January 2016 in the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia newborn/infant intensive care unit. Primary indication for ECMO was classified as medical (eg, meconium aspiration syndrome) or surgical (eg, congenital diaphragmatic hernia). Primary study endpoints were assessed with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley-III). Groups were compared with standard bivariate testing and multivariable regression.

RESULTS

A total of 191 neonates met the study's inclusion criteria, including 96 with a medical indication and 95 with a surgical indication. Survival to discharge was 71%, with significantly higher survival in the medical group (82% vs 60%; P = .001). Survivors had high rates of developmental therapies and neurosensory abnormalities. Developmental outcomes were available for 66% at 12 months and 70% at 24 months. Average performance on the Bayley-III was significantly below expected population normative values. Surgical patients had modestly lower the Bayley-III scores over time; most notably, 15% of medical infants and 49% of surgical infants had motor delay at 24 months (P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

In this single-center cohort, surgical patients had lower survival rates and higher incidence of motor delays. Strategies to reduce barriers to follow-up and improve rates of postdischarge developmental surveillance and intervention in this high-risk population are needed.

Beyond survival: Readmissions and late mortality in pediatric ECMO survivors

INTRODUCTION

The objective of our study was to identify rates of readmission and late mortality in pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) patients after discharge from their ECMO hospitalization.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of children who were discharged after ECMO. Data were obtained from the State Inpatient Databases for 10 states. Time-to-event analyses were used to estimate the risk of readmission and to identify factors predictive of readmission and late mortality, including characteristics of initial hospital course and ECMO center volume.

RESULTS

A total of 1603 pediatric ECMO patients were identified, and 42.4% of these patients died prior to discharge. Of the 924 ECMO survivors, 35.6% had an unplanned readmission, and 3% died during readmission within 1 year. The risk of readmission was significantly related to the indication for ECMO, number of complex chronic conditions, transfer status, and discharge destination (all p<0.05). The risk of late mortality was significantly related to health insurance, transfer status, number of complex chronic conditions, and indication for ECMO (all p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric ECMO survivors have a high risk of hospital readmission with approximately 3% mortality during readmissions within 1 year of initial discharge.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective Cohort Study LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Long-Term Survival, Posttraumatic Stress, and Quality of Life post Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

The past years has seen a surge in usage of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Little is known about long-term survival, posttraumatic stress, and quality of life (QoL). A single-centre retrospective cohort study on consecutive patients supported with ECMO between 2012 and 2016. Survivors completed a QoL questionnaire (Short-Form 36 [SF-36]) and the posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Civilian Version (PCL-C). Two-hundred forty-one patients (age 52 years, 158 males) received ECMO. One hundred fifty-one patients (62.7%) survived to discharge, of these 129 (85%) were alive at a median follow-up of 31.8 months. Median survival was 56.6 months. Seventy-six (58.9%) returned a completed survey. The ECMO cohort experienced a decrease in QoL in all domains which was significantly associated with a high risk for PTSD with 30.8% in the highest PTSD risk bracket. Renal replacement therapy and duration of ECMO were significantly associated with increased mortality but not with QoL. The diagnoses of primary graft dysfunction or respiratory failure were independently associated with better long-term survival, but there was no difference in QoL between different underlying conditions. Despite good long-term survival rates, reduced QoL and PTSD were frequently observed. These findings reaffirm the need for long-term follow-up and rehabilitation in this population.

Hematologic concerns in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

This ISTH "State of the Art" review aims to critically evaluate the hematologic considerations and complications in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). ECMO is experiencing a rapid increase in clinical use, but many questions remain unanswered. The existing literature does not address or explicitly state many pertinent details that may influence hematologic complications and, ultimately, patient outcomes. This review aims to broadly introduce modern ECMO practices, circuit designs, circuit materials, hematologic complications, transfusion-related considerations, age- and size-related differences, and considerations for choosing outcome measures. Relevant studies from the 2019 ISTH Congress in Melbourne, which further advanced our understanding of these processes, will also be highlighted.

Childhood Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Survivors: Parents Highlight Need for Structured Follow-Up and Support After Hospital Discharge

OBJECTIVES

To examine parental experiences of childhood extracorporeal membrane oxygenation survivors to understand: 1) the problems children faced and 2) the support received following hospital discharge.

DESIGN

Single-center descriptive study.

SETTING

Nationally commissioned center for neonatal and pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

PATIENTS

All traceable survivors less than 18 years old who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation from January 1998 to April 2013.

INTERVENTION

Anonymized postal questionnaire completed by parents of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation survivors.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Parent-reported developmental problems, follow-up, and the degree of satisfaction with any follow-up experience. Parents of 89 of 366 extracorporeal membrane oxygenation survivors (24%) responded. Sixty-six (74%) reported having developmental concerns about their child, including speech and language (n = 32; 36%), concentration (n = 28; 31%), movement/physical difficulties (n = 26; 29%), and educational difficulties (n = 22; 25%); 46 (52%) indicated that their child had difficulties across multiple domains. Twenty-one (34%) of those with one or more reported developmental concerns were not receiving any follow-up. However, 57 (64%) attended our 1-year follow-up extracorporeal membrane oxygenation clinic and 54 of 57 (95%) found it very useful. Three themes related to perceived need were identified from parents' free-text comments: the need for an expert point of contact and follow-up at the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation center; more information on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and any long-term effects; and more support from, and easier access to, community specialist services.

CONCLUSIONS

A proportion of children who have undergone extracorporeal membrane oxygenation treatment have needs that are not being met, with variable access to service provision. Structured follow-up after discharge would enable early identification of developmental concerns, permit early referral or intervention, and provide support to families. Education and sharing of information about extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with general practitioners/family physicians, community professionals, and schools are essential.

Long-term survival and costs following extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in critically ill children-a population-based cohort study

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is used to provide temporary cardiorespiratory support to critically ill children. While short-term outcomes and costs have been evaluated in this population, less is known regarding long-term survival and costs.

Methods

Population-based cohort study from Ontario, Canada (October 1, 2009 to March 31, 2017), of pediatric patients (< 18 years of age) receiving ECMO, identified through the use of an ECMO procedural code. Outcomes were identified through linkage to provincial health databases. Primary outcome was survival, measured to hospital discharge, as well as at 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years following ECMO initiation. We evaluated total patient costs in the first year following ECMO.

Results

We analyzed 342 pediatric patients. Mean age at ECMO initiation was 2.9 years (standard deviation [SD] = 5.0). Median time from hospital admission to ECMO initiation was 5 days (interquartile range [IQR] = 1–13 days). Overall survival to hospital discharge was 56.4%. Survival at 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years was 51.5%, 50.0%, and 42.1%, respectively. Among survivors, 99.5% were discharged home. Median total costs among all patients in the year following hospital admission were $147,957 (IQR $70,571–$300,295). Of these costs, the large proportion were attributable to the inpatient cost from the index admission (median $119,197, IQR $57,839–$250,675).

Conclusions

Children requiring ECMO continue to have a significant in-hospital mortality, but reassuringly, there is little decrease in long-term survival at 1 year. Median costs among all patients were substantial, but largely reflect inpatient hospital costs, rather than post-discharge outpatient costs. This information provides value to providers and health systems, allowing for prognostication of short- and long-term outcomes, as well as long-term healthcare-related expenses for pediatric ECMO survivors.

Impact of delayed systemic heparinization on postoperative bleeding and thromboembolism during post-cardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in neonates

INTRODUCTION

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is well-established for pediatric patients with post-cardiotomy heart failure. However, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support is associated with major complications, that is, hemorrhage and thromboembolism. We seek to report our experience with delayed systemic heparinization during neonatal cardiac extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and its impact on bleeding and thromboembolism.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 15 consecutive neonates who were placed on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after congenital heart surgery during a period of 3 years (2015-2017). Our anticoagulation protocol consisted of full heparin reversal by protamine after switching from cardiopulmonary bypass to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (target activated clotting time: 120 ± 20 seconds). Administration of systemic heparinization was delayed until postoperative drainage volume declined to <1 mL/kg/h. Primary study endpoints were thromboembolism, bleeding, and requirement of blood products on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

RESULTS

Our cohort (mean age: 13 ± 2.6 days; mean weight: 3.1 ± 0.3 kg; 66.7% male) required post-cardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with a mean support time of 4.5 ± 2.2 days. Systemic heparinization was delayed averagely for 18.1 ± 9.3 hours. No thromboembolic events were observed on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation or after weaning. Relevant surgical site bleeding occurred in two patients (13.3%) requiring re-thoracotomy on the first postoperative day. Analysis of transfusion volumes revealed 24.5 ± 21.9 mL/kg/d mean packed red blood cells, 9.6 ± 7.1 mL/kg/d mean fresh frozen plasma, and 7.5 ± 5.7 mL/kg/d mean platelets. In-hospital survival was 86.6% (n = 13).

CONCLUSION

In this retrospective analysis, the results of delayed systemic heparinization in neonatal post-cardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation could lead one to conclude that this routine is safe and favorable with low risk for thromboembolic events, reduced postoperative hemorrhage, and reduced blood product utilization.

Prevalence of Seizures in Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Patients as Measured by Continuous Electroencephalography

OBJECTIVES

Standards for neuromonitoring during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support do not currently exist, and there is wide variability in practice. We present our institutional experience at an academic children's hospital since establishment of a continuous electroencephalography monitoring protocol for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective, single-center study.

SETTING

Neonatal ICU and PICU in an urban, quaternary care center.

PATIENTS

All neonatal and pediatric patients requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

During the study period, 70 patients were cannulated for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and had continuous electroencephalography monitoring for greater than 24 hours. Electroencephalographic seizures were observed in 16 of 70 patients (23%), including five patients (7%) who were in status epilepticus. Among patients with continuous electroencephalography seizures, nine (56%) had subclinical nonconvulsive status epilepticus and eight (50%) had seizures in the initial 24 hours of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. Survival to hospital discharge was significantly greater for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients without seizures (74% vs 44%; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Seizures occur in a significant proportion of pediatric and neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients, frequently in the initial 24 hours after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation. Because seizures are associated with significantly decreased survival, neuromonitoring early in the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation course is important and useful. Further studies are needed to correlate electroencephalography findings with neurologic outcome.

Factors Associated With Mortality in Children Who Successfully Wean From Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

OBJECTIVES

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is an established therapy for cardiac and respiratory failure unresponsive to usual care. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation mortality remains high, with ongoing risk of death even after successful decannulation. We describe occurrence and factors associated with mortality in children weaned from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Two hundred five extracorporeal membrane oxygenation centers reporting to the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization.

SUBJECTS

Eleven thousand ninety-six patients, less than 18 years, supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation during 2007-2013, who achieved organ recovery before decannulation.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Primary outcome was hospital mortality less than or equal to 30 days post extracorporeal membrane oxygenation decannulation. Among 11,096 patients, indication for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation was respiratory (6,206; 56%), cardiac (3,663; 33%), or cardiac arrest (extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, 1,227; 11%); the majority were supported with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation at some stage in their course (8,576 patients; 77%). Mortality was 13%. Factors associated with mortality included younger age (all < 1 yr categories compared with older, p < 0.05), lower weight among neonates (≤ 3 vs > 3 kg; p < 0.001), mode of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support (venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation compared with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, p < 0.001), longer admission to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cannulation time (≥ 28 vs < 28 hr; p < 0.001), cardiac and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation compared with respiratory extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (both p < 0.001), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation duration greater than or equal to 135 hours (p < 0.001), preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation hypoxemia (PO2 ≤ 43 vs > 43 mm Hg; p < 0.001), preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation acidemia (p < 0.001), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation complications, particularly cerebral or renal (both p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite extracorporeal membrane oxygenation decannulation for organ recovery, 13% of patients die in hospital. Mortality is associated with patient factors, preextracorporeal membrane oxygenation illness severity, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management. Evidence-based strategies to optimize readiness for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation decannulation and postextracorporeal membrane oxygenation decannulation care are needed.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for neonatal collapse caused by enterovirus myocarditis

OBJECTIVE

To describe the effect of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) on survival and cardiac outcome of neonates with myocardial failure secondary to severe enterovirus (EV) myocarditis.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

A 15-bed cardiac paediatric intensive care unit (ICU).

PATIENTS

We describe the clinical presentations, cardiac findings, ECMO characteristics and outcome of seven neonates with severe EV myocarditis. Additionally, 35 previously reported cases of EV myocarditis supported with ECMO are presented.

INTERVENTIONS

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

RESULTS

Seven neonates presented with cardiovascular collapse within the first 10 days after birth and required ECMO support. Echocardiography showed left ventricular dysfunction in all and additional right ventricular dysfunction in four patients. ECG showing widespread ST changes as well as elevated troponin I indicated myocardial damage. All patients were cannulated onto ECMO shortly after ICU admission. None of the patients suffered cardiac arrest prior to ECMO initiation. Four patients survived ECMO and three survived to hospital discharge. All three survivors showed complete cardiac recovery after a median follow-up of 34 months. The survival rate in 35 previously reported cases was 34% (12/35) and including our seven cases 36% (15/42).

CONCLUSIONS

In this case series, ECMO initiation prevented further deterioration and cardiac arrest in neonates with severe EV myocarditis and not responding to conventional medical therapies. Moreover, complete cardiac recovery occurred in survivors. However, these neonates may need long ECMO runs and are at increased risk for mechanical complications. Furthermore, mortality remains high due to greater disease severity.

Evaluating quality of life of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation survivors using the pediatric quality of life inventory survey

PURPOSE

This study assesses the impact of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) associated morbidities on long-term quality of life (QOL) outcomes.

METHODS

A single center, retrospective review of neonatal and pediatric non-cardiac ECMO survivors from 1/2005-7/2016 was performed. The 2012 Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL™) survey was administered. Clinical outcomes and QOL scores between groups were compared.

RESULTS

Of 74 patients eligible, 64% (35 NICU, 12 PICU) completed the survey. Mean time since ECMO was 5.5±3years. ECMO duration for venoarterial (VA) and venovenous (VV) were similar (median 9 vs. 7.5days, p=0.09). VA ECMO had higher overall complication rate (64% vs. 36%, p=0.06) and higher neurologic complication rate (52% vs. 9%, p=0.002). ECMO mode and ICU type did not impact QOL. However, patients with neurologic complications (n=15) showed a trend towards lower overall QOL (63/100±20 vs. 74/100±18, p=0.06) compared to patients without neurologic complications. A subset analysis of patients with ischemic or hemorrhagic intracranial injuries (n=13) had significantly lower overall QOL (59/100±19 vs. 75/100±18, p=0.01) compared to patients without intracranial injuries.

CONCLUSION

Neurologic complication following ECMO is common, associated with VA mode, and negatively impacts long-term QOL. Given these associations, when clinically feasible, VV ECMO may be considered as first line ECMO therapy.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective review.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in congenital heart disease

This review article will discuss the indications for and outcomes of neonates with congenital heart disease who receive extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. Most commonly, ECMO is used as a perioperative bridge to recovery or temporary support for those after cardiac arrest or near arrest in patients with congenital or acquired heart disease. What had historically been considered a contraindication to ECMO, is evolving and more of the sickest and most complicated babies are cared for on ECMO. Given that, it is imperative for aggressive survellience for long-term morbidity in survivors, particularly neurodevelopmental outcomes.

An overview of medical ECMO for neonates

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a life-saving therapy for respiratory and cardiac failure, was first used in neonates in the 1970s. The indications and criteria for ECMO have changed over the years, but it continues to be an important option for those who have failed other medical therapies. Since the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) Registry was established in 1989, more than 29,900 neonates have been placed on ECMO for respiratory failure, with 84% surviving their ECMO course, and 73% surviving to discharge or transfer. In this chapter, we will review the basics of ECMO, patient characteristics and criteria, patient management, ECMO complications, special uses of neonatal ECMO, and patient outcomes.

The use of ECMO for gastroschisis and omphalocele: Two decades of experience

PURPOSE

The aim was to review the respiratory failure causes and outcomes of infants with omphalocele or gastroschisis receiving ECMO and reported to the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO).

METHODS

Gastroschisis and omphalocele infants supported with ECMO and reported to the ELSO Registry between 1992 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical variables, diagnosis of respiratory failure (pulmonary hypertension (PHN), congenital heart defects (CHD), congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), and sepsis), and outcomes were recorded. Univariate analysis was performed using Student's t-test for continuous or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables.

RESULTS

Fifty-two infants with gastroschisis (41) (79%) or omphalocele (11) (21%) were identified. The survival to discharge rate of 51% for gastroschisis remained stable and was significantly higher (P=0.05). The overall mortality rate for omphalocele was 82%. Omphalocele had significantly more PHN (P<0.01), CDH (P<0.01), and multiple anomalies (P=0.04) had significantly more sepsis (P=0.02), and none had a CDH.

CONCLUSION

Infants with gastroschisis requiring ECMO support have significantly better survival than omphaloceles, and respiratory failure is significantly associated with sepsis. The majority of omphalocele infants die despite ECMO, and respiratory failure is associated PHN and CDH. The association of omphalocele, PHN, and CDH merits further investigation.

STUDY TYPE AND EVIDENCE LEVEL

Retrospective comparative study of Registry Database, Level 3.

[Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in critically ill neonates and children]

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is used as a last resort during neonatal and pediatric resuscitation in case of refractory circulatory or respiratory failure under maximum conventional therapies. Different types of ECMO can be used depending on the initial failure. The main indications for ECMO are refractory respiratory failure (acute respiratory distress syndrome, status asthmaticus, severe pneumonia, meconium aspiration syndrome, pulmonary hypertension) and refractory circulatory failure (cardiogenic shock, septic shock, refractory cardiac arrest). The main contraindications are a gestational age under 34 weeks or birth weight under 2kg, severe underlying pulmonary disease, severe immune deficiency, a neurodegenerative disease and hereditary disease of hemostasis. Neurological impairment can occur during ECMO (cranial hemorrhage, seizure or stroke). Nosocomial infections and acute kidney injury are also frequent complications of ECMO. The overall survival rate of ECMO is about 60 %. This survival rate can change depending on the initial disease: from 80 % for meconium aspiration syndrome to less than 10 % for out-of-hospital refractory cardiac arrest. Recently, mobile ECMO units have been created. These units are able to perform ECMO out of a referral center for untransportable critically ill patients.

Long-Term Survival and Causes of Late Death in Children Treated With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

OBJECTIVE

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has been used in patients with severe circulatory or respiratory failure since the 1970s, but the knowledge on long-term survival in this group is scarce. The aim of the present study was to investigate the 10-year survival rates and causes of late death in children treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

DESIGN

Single-center, retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center for extracorporeal life support.

PATIENTS

Neonatal and pediatric patients treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation from 1987 to December 2013.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Survival status was obtained from the national Causes of Death registry. Patient background data along with data on survival and causes of death were collected. Survival rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Of 400 subjects, 76% survived to discharge. The median follow-up time in survivors was 7.2 years. There was a high mortality rate within the first months after discharge. In the group of patients who survived the first 90 days after treatment, the 10-year survival rates were 93% in neonates and 89% in pediatric patients and were particularly beneficial in patients whose indication for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was meconium aspiration syndrome, trauma, or infectious diseases. Late deaths were seen in some diagnostic groups, but the Kaplan-Meier curves plateaued over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Children who survive the first months after treatment with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation have a high long-term survival rate. The prognosis is especially favorable in patients with reversible conditions.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Cardiac Indications in Children

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this review are to discuss the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation following surgery for congenital heart disease, myocarditis and as a bridge to cardiac transplantation. In addition, the latest in circuit equipment, the management of anticoagulation and blood transfusions, and short- and long-term outcomes are reviewed.

DATA SOURCE

MEDLINE, PubMed.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation to support children with heart disease is increasing. There is wide variability in the use and management of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation between centers. Many areas of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management warrant additional research to inform clinical practice and improve patient outcomes, including the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in patients undergoing single ventricle palliation, optimizing strategies for monitoring and titrating anticoagulation therapies, and efforts directed at minimizing the risk of neurologic injury.

Identifying improvements to complex pathways: evidence synthesis and stakeholder engagement in infant congenital heart disease

OBJECTIVES

Many infants die in the year following discharge from hospital after surgical or catheter intervention for congenital heart disease (3-5% of discharged infants). There is considerable variability in the provision of care and support in this period, and some families experience barriers to care. We aimed to identify ways to improve discharge and postdischarge care for this patient group.

DESIGN

A systematic evidence synthesis aligned with a process of eliciting the perspectives of families and professionals from community, primary, secondary and tertiary care.

SETTING

UK.

RESULTS

A set of evidence-informed recommendations for improving the discharge and postdischarge care of infants following intervention for congenital heart disease was produced. These address known challenges with current care processes and, recognising current resource constraints, are targeted at patient groups based on the number of patients affected and the level and nature of their risk of adverse 1-year outcome. The recommendations include: structured discharge documentation, discharging certain high-risk patients via their local hospital, enhanced surveillance for patients with certain (high-risk) cardiac diagnoses and an early warning tool for parents and community health professionals.

CONCLUSIONS

Our recommendations set out a comprehensive, system-wide approach for improving discharge and postdischarge services. This approach could be used to address challenges in delivering care for other patient populations that can fall through gaps between sectors and organisations.

Concepts from paediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for adult intensivists

Over the last 5 years, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in adult patients with severe respiratory or cardiac failure. This contrasts to the use of the technology in neonatal and paediatric intensive care units, where it has been regarded as a standard of care for a number of conditions for over 25 years. Many innovations in ECMO circuitry or clinical management evolve first in one particular discipline and it may be helpful for individual clinicians to keep abreast of developments in ECMO across the entire age range, from neonatology to older adults. This review addresses nine concepts in ECMO that are better studied or established in paediatric medicine and considers their application in adult patients.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a breakthrough for respiratory failure

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a method for providing long-term treatment of a patient in a modified heart-lung machine. Desaturated blood is drained from the patient, oxygenated and pumped back to a major vein or artery. ECMO supports heart and lung function and may be used in severe heart and/or lung failure when conventional intensive care fails. The Stockholm programme started in 1987 with treatment of neonates. In 1995, the first adult patient was accepted onto the programme. Interhospital transportation during ECMO was started in 1996, which enabled retrieval of extremely unstable patients during ECMO. Today, the programme has an annual volume of about 80 patients. It has been characterized by, amongst other things, minimal patient sedation. By 31 December 2014, over 900 patients had been treated, the vast majority for respiratory failure, and over 650 patients had been transported during ECMO. The median ECMO duration was 5.3, 5.7 and 7.1 days for neonatal, paediatric and adult patients, respectively. The survival to hospital discharge rate for respiratory ECMO was 81%, 70% and 63% in the different age groups, respectively, which is significantly higher than the overall international experience as reported to the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) Registry (74%, 57% and 57%, respectively). The survival rate was significantly higher in the Stockholm programme compared to ELSO for meconium aspiration syndrome, congenital diaphragmatic hernia in neonates and pneumocystis pneumonia in paediatric patients.

Pulmonary support on day of life 30 is a strong predictor of increased 1 and 5-year morbidity in survivors of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

PURPOSE

Pulmonary support (PS) on day-of-life-30 (DOL-30) has been shown to be the strongest predictor of subsequent morbidity and in-patient mortality in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). We hypothesized that PS on DOL-30 can also predict long-term outcomes in CDH survivors.

METHODS

We analyzed records of 201 CDH survivors followed by a single multidisciplinary clinic (1995-2010). Follow-up was 83 and 70% at 1 and 5years respectively. PS was defined as: (1) invasive support (n=44), (2) noninvasive support (n=54), or (3) room air (n=103). Logistic regression was used to estimate the adjusted association of PS on DOL-30 with outcomes at 1 and 5-years.

RESULTS

Use of PS on DOL-30 was significantly associated with pulmonary and developmental morbidities at 1 and 5-years. Even after adjusting for defect-size and presence of ventilation/perfusion mismatch, greater PS on DOL-30 was associated with a significantly increased odds of requiring supplemental oxygen and developmental referral at 1-year, and asthma and developmental referral at 5-years.

CONCLUSION

CDH survivors continue to have significant long-term pulmonary and developmental morbidities. PS on DOL-30 is a strong independent predictor of morbidity at 1 and 5-years and may be used as a simple prognostic tool to identify high-risk infants.

Determinants of survival and resource utilization for pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the United States 1997-2009

BACKGROUND

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) remains a vital therapy for children requiring cardiopulmonary support.

METHODS

The Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) was analyzed for ECMO (ICD-9-CM 39.65) patients between 1997 and 2009.

RESULTS

Overall, 8005 cases were identified, consisting of neonatal (ECMO <30days of life; 33%), infant (30days to 1year; 46%), young child (1year to 5years; 9.7%), and older child (>5years; 11%) groups. Patients were most commonly male (56%), Caucasian (49%), and insured by Medicaid (46%). ECMO was indicated for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS; 33%), cardiac and circulatory congenital anomalies (CCCA; 22%), congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH; 13%), and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN; 10%). On multivariate analysis, length of stay (LOS) decreased over the study period, while total charges (TC) increased over time, p<0.001. Survival was higher for boys and those treated in large or urban teaching hospitals, p<0.05. ECMO for CDH, CCCA, and RDS had the highest associated mortality, p<0.001. Neonatal and infant ECMO had no difference in mortality vs. older children.

CONCLUSIONS

While LOS for ECMO has decreased over time, TC has increased steadily. Improved survival is found in boys and patients at large or urban teaching hospitals. CDH, CCCA, and RDS portend poor survival outcomes as indicators for ECMO.

Paediatric ECMO at low-volume paediatric cardiac centres in the Nordic countries

BACKGROUND

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-saving resource-intensive technology for patients with respiratory and/or circulatory failure. We aimed to evaluate outcome data from three Nordic paediatric centres comparing with data from the International Registry of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) and selected high-volume single-centre studies.

METHODS

One-hundred nineteen patients < 19 years from 2002 to 2012 were enrolled. Data on demographics and outcome were collected using a standardised registration form. Outcome data were compared with the ELSO registry and high-volume single-centre studies.

RESULTS

Demographics, indications and diagnosis were similar to the ELSO register. Survival after ECMO was similar to outcome data from the ELSO register, apart from paediatric cardiac ECMO, where a significantly better survival to discharge was seen in the Nordic centres (68% vs. 49%; P = 0.03). Comparison with high-volume centres in the period after 2005 demonstrated a significantly better survival after cardiac ECMO in a single high-volume centre study, whereas four studies had significantly lower survival after cardiac ECMO. No significant difference was seen in children receiving respiratory ECMO in the Nordic centres and high-volume centres.

CONCLUSIONS

Survival after ECMO in three low-volume Nordic centres demonstrated comparable outcome data with ELSO data and data from high-volume centres. We believe regular quality assurance surveys, as the present study, should be performed in order to maintain excellent therapy within the individual ECMO centres.

Triggers for driving treatment of at-risk patients with invasive fungal disease

Timing of treatment for invasive fungal disease (IFD) is critical for making appropriate clinical decisions. Historically, many centres have treated at-risk patients prior to disease detection to try to prevent fungal colonization or in response to antibiotic-resistant fever. Many studies have indicated that a diagnostic-driven approach, using radiological tests and biomarkers to guide treatment decisions, may be a more clinically relevant and cost-effective approach. The Invasive Fungal Infections Cooperative Group of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group (EORTC/MSG) defined host clinical and mycological criteria for proven, probable and possible classes of IFD, to aid diagnosis. However, some patients at risk of IFD do not meet EORTC/MSG criteria and have been termed Groups B (patients with persistent unexplained febrile neutropenia) and C (patients with non-definitive signs of IFD) in a study by Maertens et al. (Haematologica 2012; 97: 325-7). Consequently, we considered the most appropriate triggers (clinical or radiological signs or biomarkers) for treatment of all patient groups, especially the unclassified B and C groups, based on our clinical experience. For Group C patients, additional diagnostic testing is recommended before a decision to treat, including repeat galactomannan tests, radiological scans and analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Triggers for stopping antifungal treatment were considered to include resolution of all clinical signs and symptoms. For Group B patients, it was concluded that better definition of risk factors predisposing patients to fungal infection and the use of more sensitive diagnostic tests are required to aid treatment decisions and improve clinical outcomes.

[Particularities of ECMO in acute respiratory distress syndrome in pediatrics]

Les techniques de circulation extracorporelle sont utilisées en pédiatrie dans les syndromes de détresse respiratoire aiguë (SDRA) les plus graves depuis les années 1980. Les données du registre international de l’Extracorporeal Life Support Organization révèlent plus 5 000 enfants placés en extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) en 2012 avec une augmentation du nombre de cas annuels depuis l’épidémie de 2009. La survie, de 56 %, est stable alors que le nombre d’enfants avec des comorbidités augmente grâce aux améliorations apportées au matériel. Bien que nous ne disposions pas d’études randomisées, ces résultats encouragent à proposer l’ECMO dans l’arsenal thérapeutique du SDRA de l’enfant. Si les techniques veinoveineuses doivent être privilégiées dans les affections respiratoires, l’ECMO veinoartérielle peut être nécessaire et reste d’une utilisation fréquente chez l’enfant (50 % des cas). En pédiatrie, les particularités techniques sont liées d’une part aux particularités physiologiques de l’enfant et d’autre part aux contraintes dues au matériel proposé selon les différentes catégories d’âge. L’ECMO est une technique de recours lourde qui nécessite une expertise à la fois technique et pédiatrique spécialisée en raison de ce terrain particulier.