Sedation Practice in Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: An International Survey

Awake Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in the Intensive Care Unit: Challenges and Emerging Concepts

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an advanced treatment for severe respiratory failure. Implantation of ECMO before invasive ventilation or extubation during ECMO has been reported and is becoming increasingly popular. Avoidance of sedation and invasive ventilation during ECMO (commonly referred to as "awake ECMO") may have potential advantages, including a lower rate of delirium, shorter mechanical ventilation time, and the possibility of undergoing early rehabilitation and/or physiotherapy. However, awake ECMO is also associated with several risks, such as self-inflicted lung injury and cannula displacement or self-removal. Accordingly, invasive ventilation before ECMO, as well as weaning from ECMO before weaning from mechanical ventilation, remain the most common approaches. In this review, the authors describe indications, contraindications, advantages, disadvantages, and current evidence on the use of ECMO without invasive ventilation in patients with respiratory failure.

Sedation management and processed EEG-based solutions during venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a narrative review of key challenges and potential benefits

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an established technique for managing severe cardiorespiratory failure. However, it is invasive and requires profound analgo-sedation during initiation and often throughout the therapy. Managing sedation in venovenous (VV) ECMO patients is particularly challenging due to the impact of ECMO circuits on pharmacokinetics and specific patient requirements. This can lead to unpredictable sedative effects and require multiple drugs at higher doses. Additionally, sedation is usually managed with traditional scoring methods, which are subjective and invalid during neuromuscular blockade. These uncertainties may impact outcomes. Recent clinical practice increasingly focuses on reducing sedation to enable earlier physiotherapy and mobilisation, particularly in patients awaiting transplants or receiving mechanical circulatory support. In this context, processed electroencephalogram-based (pEEG) sedation monitoring might be promising, having shown benefits in general anaesthesia and intensive care. However, the technology has limitations, and its benefits in ECMO practice have yet to be formally evaluated. This review provides insights into the challenges of ECMO sedation, including pharmacokinetics, unique ECMO requirements, and the implications of inadequate sedation scores. Finally, it includes a brief overview of the practicality and limitations of pEEG monitoring during VV-ECMO, highlighting a significant research gap.

Level of sedation in patients with COVID-19 supported with ECMO: A comparative analysis of the critical care consortium international database

BACKGROUND

Liberation from sedation may be beneficial for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome supported by veno-venous (VV) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Currently, there is limited evidence to support this approach. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the 90-day patient mortality of different sedation strategies in COVID-19 patients supported with VV ECMO.

METHODS

Retrospective, observational sub-study of the COVID-19 Critical Care Consortium database including COVID-19 patients supported with VV ECMO. Two cohorts were compared: high sedation patients who received neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) throughout ECMO and low sedation patients who did not receive NMBA consistently. Patients' level of sedation during ECMO was also considered. The primary outcome was 90-day in-hospital mortality and was assessed using cause-specific Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

224 low and 104 high sedation patients were included. Pre-ECMO respiratory condition prior was similar between groups, except for the ratio of partial pressure of oxygen to inspired fraction of oxygen, which was lower in the high sedation group at 93 [61-130] than the low sedation group at 106 [69-140]. No difference was observed in disease severity scores between cohorts. Low sedation patients had longer ECMO runs, more circuit changes, but lower infectious and hemorrhagic complications. Higher sedation was associated with a hazard ratio for death of 3.23 (95% CI 2.16-4.83) compared to low sedation.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced sedation in COVID-19 ECMO patients is feasible and may be associated with improved survival and reduced complications compared to continuous paralysis, albeit with longer ECMO runs.

Ketamine Use in Adult and Pediatric Patients Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO): A Systematic Review

Background: Analgesia and sedation are often critical elements of therapy for patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Aside from potential drug-drug interactions, the PK changes associated with ECMO make appropriate analgosedative selection challenging. Ketamine is less lipophilic and has lower protein binding than alternative agents, and may be less impacted by the PK changes during ECMO. Objective: To systematically identify all instances of ketamine use during ECMO support in the literature to elucidate associated efficacy and safety outcomes and prevalence of use, as well as commonly used dosing strategies and pharmacokinetic data. Methods: Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, and OVID Embase were searched through 02/2023 using keywords ketamine and ECMO or extracorporal life support (ECLS). Case reports, case series, and studies were included that had (1) original data, (2) included patients that were on ECMO and continuous infusion ketamine, and (3) reported pertinent ketamine related clinical endpoints or prevalence of use. Results: Of the 307 articles screened, 25 were identified as relevant and 11 met our inclusion criteria. Heterogeneity of patient population, ketamine indication, reported outcomes, and reported safety endpoints were identified in the included articles. Commonly reported information includes indications, pharmacokinetics, dosing, adverse effects and use in pediatrics for ketamine, and suspected opioid sparing effect. Conclusion: Our review has found a lack of consistency in reporting and results in adult and pediatric patients. Increased consistency in reporting and larger studies are required to increase our knowledge of ketamine use in both the adult and pediatric patient population.

Practices surrounding antimicrobial use in patients managed with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: An international survey

PURPOSE

This study aimed to survey critical care clinicians and characterize their perception of antimicrobial dosing strategies in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

METHODS

International, cross-sectional survey distributed to members of the Society of Critical Care Medicine in October 2022.

RESULTS

Respondents were primarily physicians (45%), with 92% practicing in North America. Ninety-seven percent of respondents reported antimicrobial dosing in critically ill patients to be challenging, due to physiological derangements seen in the patient population. Eighty-seven percent reported consideration of physicochemical drug properties when dosing antimicrobials in ECMO-supported patients, with lipophilicity (83%) and degree of protein binding (74%) being the two most common. Respondents' approach to antimicrobial dosing strategies did not significantly differ in critically ill ECMO-supported patients, compared to patients with equal severity of illness not receiving ECMO support.

CONCLUSION

Approaches to antimicrobial dosing strategies do not significantly differ among respondents between critically ill patients on ECMO support, compared to patients with equal severity of illness not receiving ECMO support. These findings were unexpected considering the added physiologic complexity of the ECMO circuit to critically ill adult patients and the need for well designed and adequately powered studies to inform empiric dosing guidance for ECMO-supported patients.

A Narrative Review of the Impact of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Critical Care Therapies

Objective:

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) utilization is increasing on a global scale, and despite technological advances, minimal standardized approaches to pharmacotherapeutic management exist. This objective was to create a comprehensive review for medication dosing in ECMO based on the most current evidence.

Data Sources:

A literature search of PubMed was performed for all pertinent articles prior to 2022. The following search terms were utilized: ECMO, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, sedation, analgesia, antiepileptic, anticoagulation, antimicrobial, antifungal, nutrition. Retrospective cohort studies, case-control studies, case series, case reports, and ex vivo investigations were reviewed.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

PubMed (1975 through July 2022) was the database used in the literature search. Non-English studies were excluded. Search terms included both drug class categories, specific drug names, ECMO, and pharmacokinetics.

Data Synthesis:

Medications with high protein binding (>70%) and high lipophilicity (logP > 2) are associated with circuit sequestration and the potential need for dose adjustment. Volume of distribution changes with ECMO may also impact dosing requirements of common critical care medications. Lighter sedation targets and analgosedation may help reduce sedative and analgesia requirements, whereas higher antiepileptic dosing is recommended. Vancomycin is minimally affected by the ECMO circuit and recommendations for dosing in critically ill adults are reasonable. Anticoagulation remains challenging as optimal aPTT goals have not been established.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice:

This review describes the anticipated impacts of ECMO circuitry on sedatives, analgesics, anticoagulation, antiepileptics, antimicrobials, antifungals, and nutrition support and provides recommendations for drug therapy management.

Conclusions:

Medication pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters should be considered when determining the potential impact of the ECMO circuit on attainment of therapeutic effect and target serum drug concentrations, and should guide therapy choices and/or dose adjustments when data are not available.

Monitoring during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) offers advanced mechanical support to patients with severe acute respiratory and/or cardiac failure. Ensuring an adequate therapeutic approach as well as prevention of ECMO-associated complications, by means of timely liberation, forms an essential part of standard ECMO care and is only achievable through continuous monitoring and evaluation. This review focus on the cardiorespiratory monitoring tools that can be used to assess and titrate adequacy of ECMO therapy; as well as methods to assess readiness to wean and/or discontinue ECMO support.

RECENT FINDINGS

Surrogates of tissue perfusion and near infrared spectroscopy are not standards of care but may provide useful information in select patients. Echocardiography allows to determine cannulas position, evaluate cardiac structures, and function, and diagnose complications. Respiratory monitoring is mandatory to achieve lung protective ventilation and identify early lung recovery, surrogate measurements of respiratory effort and ECMO derived parameters are invaluable in optimally managing ECMO patients.

SUMMARY

Novel applications of existing monitoring modalities alongside evolving technological advances enable the advanced monitoring required for safe delivery of ECMO. Liberation trials are necessary to minimize time sensitive ECMO related complications; however, these have yet to be standardized.

The effects of propofol on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation oxygenator exchange

The objective of this study was to determine if propofol administration to veno-venous (VV) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) patients was associated with more incidents of oxygenator failure when compared to patients who did not receive propofol. This was a single center, retrospective cohort study. The primary outcome of the study is oxygenator exchanges per ECMO day in patients who received propofol versus those who did not receive propofol. Patients were 18 years or older on VV-ECMO support between January 1, 2015 and January 31, 2018. Patients were excluded if they required ECMO support for less than 48 h or greater than 21 days. There were five patients in the propofol arm that required oxygenator exchanges and seven patients in the control arm. The total number of oxygenator exchanges per ECMO day was not significantly different between groups (p = 0.50). When comparing those who required an oxygenator exchange and those who did not, there was no difference in the cumulative dose of propofol received per ECMO hour (0.64 mg/kg/h vs 0.96 mg/kg/h; p = 0.16). Propofol use in patients on VV-ECMO does not appear to increase the number of oxygenator exchanges.

TIVA for ECMO and VAD

In recent decades, the use of temporary and permanent use of mechanical assist devices is on the rise for patients with end-stage cardiac failure. These support strategies hold inherently different risks in the face of noncardiac critical illness and require multidisciplinary treatment strategies. The main issues with all mechanical devices whether extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or ventricular assist device (VAD), are related to thrombosis, anticoagulation, infection, avoiding hypertension and thus use of intravenous drugs, which requires intense monitoring, to circumvent further renal, ischemic or neurological injury and prevent complication.

Extracorporeal Gas Exchange for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Open Questions, Controversies and Future Directions

Veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO) in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) improves gas exchange and allows lung rest, thus minimizing ventilation-induced lung injury. In the last forty years, a major technological and clinical improvement allowed to dramatically improve the outcome of patients treated with V-V ECMO. However, many aspects of the care of patients on V-V ECMO remain debated. In this review, we will focus on main issues and controversies on caring of ARDS patients on V-V ECMO support. Particularly, the indications to V-V ECMO and the feasibility of a less invasive extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal will be discussed. Moreover, the controversies on management of mechanical ventilation, prone position and sedation will be explored. In conclusion, we will discuss evidences on transfusions and management of anticoagulation, also focusing on patients who undergo simultaneous treatment with ECMO and renal replacement therapy. This review aims to discuss all these clinical aspects with an eye on future directions and perspectives.

Propofol Safety in Anticoagulated and Nonanticoagulated Patients During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Sedation management during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation(ECMO) is a common challenge encountered by treating intensivists. Data about the safety of propofol use during ECMO has been contradictory. We aimed to investigate associated risks of propofol use on oxygenator lifespan and to explore the effect of propofol use on oxygenator membranes when therapeutic anticoagulation was omitted. Adult respiratory ECMO patients who received propofol were retrospectively compared with those who did not, and outcomes were assessed by means of duration of oxygenator functionality before requiring an exchange, and number of exchanges during propofol use and/or ECMO support. Out of the 63patients included in the analysis, 46%received propofol during ECMO as part of sedation regimen. The use of propofol was not found to be associated with an increased incidence of oxygenator failure when compared with cohorts who did not receive propofol (21% propofol arm vs. 6% control, p = 0.13). When analyzed for anticoagulation omission effects, propofol did not increase the risk of oxygenator failure (p = 0.63). The only predictor that statistically predicted the risk of oxygenator failure was development of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) during ECMO. The results of this study further support the previously reported safety of propofol utilization during respiratory ECMO even in the absence of anticoagulation.

Sedation Practices of Neonates Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Neonatal sedation practices during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are not well described and no universal guidelines exist. Current literature describes types of medications used in adult and pediatric ECMO patients, but to our knowledge no data is published on neonatal specific median daily dose requirements or descriptions of sedation practices. The objective of this study is to examine the types and median doses of sedation utilized and to describe sedation practices for neonatal patients requiring ECMO support. This study was a descriptive, retrospective analysis of sedation practices in a single center newborn/infant intensive care unit (N/IICU) from 2012 to 2016. Subjects included all neonates who required ECMO support in the N/IICU for >24 hours. Data were collected from 87 patients and showed the median daily dose of opioids converted to intravenous morphine equivalents was 1.2, 2.0, and 3.4 mg/kg on ECMO days 1, 7, and 14, respectively. The most commonly used continuous medication infusions included morphine, midazolam, and hydromorphone. Dexmedetomidine was used in eight patients and ketamine in two patients. Doses of opioids and sedatives typically escalated over time. Pain scores did not correlate with sedation or analgesic administrations.

Simultaneous quantitative LC-MS method of ketamine, midazolam and their metabolites (dehydronorketamine, norketamine and 1hydroxymidazolam) for its application in patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy

Ketamine (Ket) and midazolam (MDZ) are commonly administered drugs in the intensive care setting for analgesia and sedation. Ket and MDZ are metabolized to dehydro-norketamine (DHNK), nor-ketamine (NK) and 1-hydroxy midazolam (1HMDZ). Limited studies evaluating their pharmacokinetics exists in patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy. Therefore, we developed a quantitative, high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (with single ion monitoring) method to simultaneously detect Ket, MDZ and their (DHNK, NK and 1HMDZ) metabolites in human plasma. Considerable sensitivity was obtained for the analytes using a C₁₈ HILIC column operated by a high-performance liquid chromatography system coupled with a Thermo Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometer. Calibration curves were developed for analyte molecules (n = 5) in the presence of carbamazepine (CBZ) as an internal standard. The lower limits of quantitation (LLOQ) for Ket and MDZ were 20 and 10 ng/mL, respectively with the LLOQ for DHNK, NK and 1HMDZ at 470, 320 and 150 ng/ml. Moreover, the percent coefficient of variance and precision for inter- and intra-day runs were within the standards set forth by the ICH and FDA guidelines. This method is sensitive and has been successfully applied to an ongoing pharmacokinetic study in patients on ECMO therapy.

Sedation with alfentanil versus fentanyl in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: outcomes from a single-centre retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

In November 2016, our institution switched from alfentanil to fentanyl for analgesia and sedation in adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. There is no published evidence comparing the use of alfentanil with fentanyl for sedation in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients. We conducted a retrospective observational study to explore any significant differences in patient outcomes or in the prescribing of adjunct sedatives before and after the switch.

METHODS

Patients were retrospectively identified from a prospectively recorded database of all patients who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation at our institution between January 2016 and October 2017. Patients included those sedated with alfentanil or fentanyl. The total daily doses of intravenous opioids (alfentanil or fentanyl) were calculated for each patient, and the prescribing of adjunctive sedative or analgesic agents was recorded. Patient demographics, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation modality, clinical outcomes including mortality and length of intensive care and hospital stay were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 174 patients were identified, 69 on alfentanil and 95 on fentanyl. There was no difference found between groups for mode of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, age, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation 2 score (APACHE II) and Charlson score, except for body mass index (p = 0.002). No differences in patient outcomes was observed between groups, although patients in the alfentanil group received a significantly higher median total daily dose of adjuvant sedatives (quetiapine (p = 0.016) and midazolam (p = 0.009)).

CONCLUSIONS

No differences in patient outcomes were found between extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients sedated with alfentanil compared with fentanyl. There was a statistically significant reduction in some adjunctive sedatives in patients managed with a fentanyl-based regimen. Prospective studies are required to confirm these results.

Sedation Practice in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation-Treated Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A Retrospective Study

Our objective was to characterize sedation management in adult patients with severe respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) treated with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO). We conducted a retrospective chart review of these patients treated at Toronto General Hospital between January 2012 and October 2015. Medications administered (sedative, analgesic, paralytic, and antipsychotic), sedation depth (Sedation Agitation Scale [SAS] score) delirium assessments, and mobilization were recorded daily. Forty-five adults (33 males, median age 47 years; interquartile range [IQR], 35-56]) with ARDS (median PaO2/FiO2 71; IQR 59-83) because of respiratory infection (91%) were treated with VV-ECMO for a median of 11 days (IQR, 7-17). After ECMO initiation, 96% patients were deeply sedated (SAS score < 3) with continuous infusions of midazolam (49%), propofol (18%), or both (29%) and 98% were receiving opioid infusions (93% fentanyl). Patients were deeply sedated for a median of 6 days (IQR, 3-10) after cannulation before transitioning to intermediate or light sedation (SAS score ≥ 3). Before ECMO discontinuation, 77% of surviving patients were intermediately or lightly sedated, 20% were receiving no sedatives, and 9% were receiving no opioids. During ECMO, 58% had positive delirium assessment and 24% experienced agitation (SAS ≥ 6). During ECMO support, 71% received physical therapy that occurred after a median of 7 days (IQR, 4-12) after cannulation. In conclusion, we found that although patients were deeply sedated for a prolonged duration after VV-ECMO initiation, many were able to safely achieve light sedation and active mobilization.

Pharmacokinetics and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Adults: A Literature Review

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

Limiting sedation for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome - time to wake up

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Critically ill patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) may require sedation in their clinical care. The goals of sedation in ARDS patients are to improve patient comfort and tolerance of supportive and therapeutic measures without contributing to adverse outcomes. This review discusses the current evidence for sedation management in patients with ARDS.

RECENT FINDINGS

Deep sedation strategies should be avoided in the care of patients with ARDS because deep sedation has been associated with increased time on mechanical ventilation, longer ICU and hospital length of stay, and higher mortality in critically ill patients. Adoption of protocol-based, light-sedation strategies is preferred and improves patient outcomes. Although the optimal sedative agent for ARDS patients is unclear, benzodiazepines should be avoided because of associations with oversedation, delirium, prolonged ICU and hospital length of stay, and increased mortality. Minimizing sedation in patients with ARDS facilitates early mobilization and early discharge from the ICU, potentially aiding in recovery from critical illness. Strategies to optimize ventilation in ARDS patients, such as low tidal volume ventilation and high positive end-expiratory pressure can be employed without deep sedation; however, deep sedation is required if patients receive neuromuscular blockade, which may benefit some ARDS patients. Knowledge gaps persist as to whether or not prone positioning and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation can be tolerated with light sedation.

SUMMARY

Current evidence supports the use of protocol-based, light-sedation strategies in critically ill patients with ARDS. Further research into sedation management specifically in ARDS populations is needed.

Tracheostomy as a bridge to spontaneous breathing and awake-ECMO in non-transplant surgical patients

AIMS

The tracheostomy is a frequently used procedure for the respiratory weaning of ventilated patients allows sedation free ECLS use in awake patient. The aim of this study is to assess the possibility and highlight the benefits of lowering the impact of sedation in surgical non-transplant patients on ECLS. The specific objective was to investigate the use of tracheostomy as a bridge to spontaneous breathing on ECLS.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Of the 95 patients, 65 patients received a tracheostomy, and 5 patients were admitted with a tracheostoma. One patient was cannulated without intubation, one is extubated during ECLS course after 48 hours. 4 patients were extubated after weaning and the removal of ECLS. 19 patients died before the indication to tracheostomy was given.

CONCLUSION

Tracheostomy can bridge to spontaneous breathing and awake-ECMO in non-transplant surgical patients. The "awake ECMO" strategy may avoid complications related to mechanical ventilation, sedation, and immobilization and provide comparable outcomes to other approaches for providing respiratory support.

Medication Complications in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

The need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy is a marker of disease severity for which multiple medications are required. The therapy causes physiologic changes that impact drug pharmacokinetics. These changes can lead to exposure-driven decreases in efficacy or increased incidence of side effects. The pharmacokinetic changes are drug specific and largely undefined for most drugs. We review available drug dosing data and provide guidance for use in the ECMO patient population.

Sedation and Mobilization During Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Acute Respiratory Failure: An International Survey

OBJECTIVES

To characterize sedation, analgesia, delirium, and mobilization practices in patients supported with venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for severe acute respiratory failure.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional electronic survey administered January 2016 to March 2016.

SETTING

Three-hundred ninety-four extracorporeal membrane oxygenation centers registered with the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization.

SUBJECTS

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation medical directors and program coordinators.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We analyzed responses from 209 respondents (53%), mostly from academic centers (63%); 41% respondents provide venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation to adults exclusively. Following venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation initiation, 97% respondents administer sedative/analgesic infusions, and the sedation target was "sedated" or "very sedated" for 59%, "calm and cooperative" for 25%, and "unarousable" for 16%. Use of daily sedation interruption and a sedation/analgesia protocol was reported by 51% and 39%, respectively. Midazolam (48%) and propofol (19%) were reported as the most frequently used sedatives; fentanyl (44%) and morphine (20%) the most frequent opioids. Use of a delirium scale was reported by 55% respondents. Physical therapy was reported by 84% respondents, with 41% initiating it within 72 hours after cannulation. Mobilization goals varied from range of motion exercises (81%) to ambulation (22%). The most frequently perceived barriers to mobilization were hemodynamic instability, hypoxemia, and dependency on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of respondents reported targeting moderate to deep sedation following cannulation, with the use of sedative and opioid infusions. There is considerable variability surrounding early physical therapy and mobilization goals for patients with acute respiratory failure supported by venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

The early diagnosis and management of mixed delirium in a patient placed on ECMO and with difficult sedation: A case report

Delirium represents a serious problem that impacts the physical and cognitive prognosis of patients admitted to intensive care units and requires prompt diagnosis and management. This article describes the case and progress of a patient placed on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation with difficult sedation criteria and an early diagnosis of mixed delirium. During the case report, we reflect on the pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies employed to cope with delirium paying special attention to the non-use of physical restraint measures in order to preserve vital support devices (endotracheal tube or Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation cannula). The multimodal and multidisciplinary approach, focused on nursing interventions, strict Pain/Agitation/Delirium monitoring and pharmacological measures, as well as the implementation of measures according to the eCASH (early Comfort using Analgesia, minimal Sedatives and maximal Human Care) concept, were effective, resulting in a relatively short admission considering the severity of the patient's condition and the associated complications. Early independent ambulation was achieved prior to transfer to a hospitalisation unit.

Medicating patients during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: the evidence is building

This article is one of ten reviews selected from the Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine 2017. Other selected articles can be found online at http://ccforum.com/series/annualupdate2017 . Further information about the Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine is available from http://www.springer.com/series/8901 .

A retrospective study of sedation and analgesic requirements of pediatric patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) from a single-center experience

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study is to describe the sedative and analgesic requirements identifying factors associated with medication escalation in neonates and children supported on ECMO.

METHOD

Observational retrospective cohort study in a tertiary pediatric intensive care unit from June 2009 to June 2013.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty patients were included in the study. Fentanyl and midazolam were the first line agents used while on ECMO. Higher opiate requirements were associated with younger age (p=0.01), thoracic cannulation (p=0.002), the use of dexmedetomidine (p=0.007) and prolonged use of muscle relaxants (p=0.03). Higher benzodiazepine requirements were associated with younger age (p=0.01), respiratory failure (p=0.02) and the use of second line agents (p=0.002). One third of the patients required second line agents as adjuvants for comfort without a decrease in opiate and/or benzodiazepine requirements.

CONCLUSIONS

Providing comfort to subpopulations of pediatric ECMO patients seems to be more challenging. The use of second line agents did not improve comfort in our cohort. Prospective studies are required to optimize analgesia and sedation management in children on ECMO.

Adult venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for severe respiratory failure: Current status and future perspectives

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for severe acute respiratory failure was proposed more than 40 years ago. Despite the publication of the ARDSNet study and adoption of lung protective ventilation, the mortality for acute respiratory failure due to acute respiratory distress syndrome has continued to remain high. This technology has evolved over the past couple of decades and has been noted to be safe and successful, especially during the worldwide H1N1 influenza pandemic with good survival rates. The primary indications for ECMO in acute respiratory failure include severe refractory hypoxemic and hypercarbic respiratory failure in spite of maximum lung protective ventilatory support. Various triage criteria have been described and published. Contraindications exist when application of ECMO may be futile or technically impossible. Knowledge and appreciation of the circuit, cannulae, and the physiology of gas exchange with ECMO are necessary to ensure lung rest, efficiency of oxygenation, and ventilation as well as troubleshooting problems. Anticoagulation is a major concern with ECMO, and the evidence is evolving with respect to diagnostic testing and use of anticoagulants. Clinical management of the patient includes comprehensive critical care addressing sedation and neurologic issues, ensuring lung recruitment, diuresis, early enteral nutrition, treatment and surveillance of infections, and multisystem organ support. Newer technology that delinks oxygenation and ventilation by extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal may lead to ultra-lung protective ventilation, avoidance of endotracheal intubation in some situations, and ambulatory therapies as a bridge to lung transplantation. Risks, complications, and long-term outcomes and resources need to be considered and weighed in before widespread application. Ethical challenges are a reality and a multidisciplinary approach that should be adopted for every case in consideration.

Evaluation of sedatives, analgesics, and neuromuscular blocking agents in adults receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of sedative, analgesic, and neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) in patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a 2-year, prospective, observational study of adult intensive care unit patients on ECMO support for more than 48hours.

RESULTS

We analyzed 32 patients, including 15 receiving VA (venoarterial) ECMO and 17 VV (venovenous) ECMO. The median daily dose of benzodiazepines (midazolam equivalents) was 24mg, and the median daily dose of opioids (fentanyl equivalents) was 3875 μg. There was a moderate negative correlation between the day of ECMO and the median daily benzodiazepine dose (r=-0.5515) and a very weak negative correlation for the median daily opioid dose (r=-0.0053). On average, patients were sedated to Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale scores between 0 and -1. Continuous infusions of opioids, benzodiazepines, propofol, dexmedetomidine, and NMBAs were administered on 404 (85.1%), 199 (41.9%), 95 (20%), 32 (6.7%), and 60 (12.6%) ECMO days, respectively. Patients in the VA arm received a continuous infusion opioid (96.4% vs 81.6% days; P<.001) and benzodiazepine (58.2% vs 37.0% days; P<.001) more frequently.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients received relatively low doses of sedatives and analgesics while at a light level of sedation on average. Patients rarely required neuromuscular blockade.

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.

Identification and prevalence of PTSD risk factors in ECMO patients: A single centre study

BACKGROUND

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is one of the most invasive rescue therapies for acute heart and/or lung failure. Survivors have high rates of adverse mental health outcomes, such as post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and manifest post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet no study to date has identified and explored PTSD risk factors in these patients.

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim of this study was to determine and explore post-traumatic stress risk factors for patients treated with ECMO. It also aimed to provide a baseline profile for future hypothesis testing with respect to risk factor exposure, level of exposure and post-traumatic stress outcomes in these patients.

METHODS DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

The study was conducted at the Alfred Hospital Melbourne, Australia.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients were selected in 2012 from an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) registry that prospectively included all patients admitted to ICU and treated with ECMO.

DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS

Data were extracted from the ICU ECMO registry, ICU and ward charts, progress notes, referrals, drug charts and discharge letters. Data were descriptively analysed.

RESULTS

Patients treated with ECMO are exposed to almost all investigated PTSD risk factors. These included psychiatric history (psychiatric comorbidities), admission to ICU and treatment (prolonged ventilation during prolonged ICU stay), and drug therapy (all patients treated with PTSD risk related drugs).

CONCLUSION

ECMO patients are exposed to PTSD risk factors such as young age, mechanical ventilation, drug administration, delirium and agitation. Younger age, heterogeneous conditions, profound illness severity and prolonged ICU stay describe the case complexity of patients and may explain these findings. Patients in ICU are increasingly conscious during active treatment and this may have positive or negative psychological effects. "Awake" ECMO in which patients are conscious while on active life support may represent a unique PTSD risk factor in this perspective.