Effect of Extracorporeal Blood Purification on Mortality in Sepsis: A Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA) of published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine whether mortality benefit exists for extracorporeal blood purification techniques in sepsis. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search on MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for RCTs was performed. STUDY SELECTION: RCTs investigating the effect of extracorporeal blood purification device use on mortality among critically ill septic patients were selected. DATA EXTRACTION: Mortality was assessed using Mantel-Haenszel models, and I2 was used for heterogeneity. Data are presented as odds ratios (OR); 95% confidence intervals (CIs); p values; I2. Using the control event mortality proportion, we performed a TSA and calculated the required information size using an anticipated intervention effect of a 14% relative reduction in mortality. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirty-nine RCTs were identified, with 2,729 patients. Fourteen studies used hemofiltration (n = 789), 17 used endotoxin adsorption devices (n = 1,363), 3 used nonspecific adsorption (n = 110), 2 were cytokine removal devices (n = 117), 2 used coupled plasma filtration adsorption (CPFA) (n = 207), 2 combined hemofiltration and perfusion (n = 40), and 1 used plasma exchange (n = 106). On conventional meta-analysis, hemofiltration (OR 0.56 [0.40-0.79]; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%), endotoxin removal devices (OR 0.40 [0.23-0.67], p < 0.001; I2 = 71%), and nonspecific adsorption devices (OR 0.32 [0.13-0.82]; p = 0.02; I2 = 23%) were associated with mortality benefit, but not cytokine removal (OR 0.99 [0.07-13.42], p = 0.99; I2 = 64%), CPFA (OR 0.50 [0.10-2.47]; p = 0.40; I2 = 64%), or combined hemofiltration and adsorption (OR 0.71 [0.13-3.79]; p = 0.69; I2 = 0%). TSA however revealed that based on the number of existing patients recruited for RCTs, neither hemofiltration (TSA-adjusted CI 0.29-1.10), endotoxin removal devices (CI 0.05-3.40), nor nonspecific adsorption devices (CI 0.01-14.31) were associated with mortality benefit. CONCLUSION: There are inadequate data at present to conclude that the use of extracorporeal blood purification techniques in sepsis is beneficial. Further adequately powered RCTs are required to confirm any potential mortality benefit, which may be most evident in patients at greatest risk of death.

Sex Differences in Advanced Heart Failure Therapies.

This in-depth review of sex differences in advanced heart failure therapy summarizes the existing literature on implantable cardioverter defibrillators, biventricular pacemakers, mechanical circulatory support, and transplantation with a focus on utilization, efficacy/clinical effectiveness, adverse events, and controversies. One will learn about the controversies regarding efficacy/clinical effectiveness of implantable cardioverter defibrillators and understand why these devices should be implanted in women even if there are sex differences in appropriate shocks. Individuals will learn about the sex differences with biventricular pacemakers with respect to ventricular remodeling and reduction in heart failure hospitalizations/mortality, as well as, possible mechanisms. We will demonstrate sex differences in heart transplantation and waitlist survival. Despite similar survival for women and men with left ventricular assist devices, there are sex differences in adverse events. These devices do successfully bridge women and men to transplant, yet women are less likely than men to have a left ventricular assist at time of listing and time of transplantation. Finally, one will learn about the concerns regarding poor outcome for men who receive female donor hearts and discover this may not be due to sex, but rather size. More research is needed to better understand sex differences and further improve advanced heart failure therapy for both women and men.

The effect of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in re-arrest after survival event: a retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: The objectives of this study were to 1) identify the risk factors for predicting re-arrest and 2) determine whether extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation results in better outcomes than conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation for managing re-arrest in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients. METHODS: This retrospective analysis was based on a prospective cohort. We included adult patients with non-traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest who achieved a survival event. The primary measurement was re-arrest, defined as recurrent cardiac arrest within 24 hours after survival event. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to predict re-arrest. Subgroup analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the survival to discharge in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients who experienced re-arrest. RESULTS: Of 534 patients suitable for inclusion, 203 (38.0%) were enrolled in the re-arrest group. Old age, prolonged advanced cardiac life support duration and the presence of hypotension at 0 hours after survival event were independent variables predicting re-arrest. In the re-arrest group, the extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation group (n = 25) showed better outcomes than the conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation group. However, multiple logistic regression for predicting survival to discharge revealed that extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation was not an independent factor. Multiple logistic regression revealed that a hypotensive state at re-arrest was an independent risk factor for survival. CONCLUSION: Alternative methods that reduce the advanced cardiac life support duration should be considered to prevent re-arrest and attain good outcomes in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients. Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation for re-arrest tended to show a good outcome compared to conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation for re-arrest. Avoiding or immediately correcting hypotension may prevent re-arrest and improve the outcome of re-arrested patients.

Impact of Crystalloid or Albumin Priming of the Heart-Lung Machine on Inhospital Outcome after Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Crystalloid priming is a cost-effective, free from immunological reactions, and independent from human plasma delivery. However, there is some debate on the negative impact of low plasma colloid pressure and higher incidence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). The aim of the study was to rule out any adverse effects of crystalloid priming on the postoperative outcome. METHODS: We investigated 520 consecutive patients, including emergencies, who had isolated on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting in 2009 by retrospective analysis in our clinic. Crystalloid priming (n = 294) was introduced as an alternative to albumin (n = 226). Reviewing patient charts and IT-based data generated a dataset of perioperative parameters. RESULTS: There were no differences with respect to demographical data and preexisting comorbidities between both groups. Despite equal perfusion times, more volume had to be substituted during extracorporeal circulation following crystalloid priming. However, this did not influence the inhospital outcomes. According to the definition of the "Sepsis-3 Guidelines," the incidence of SIRS was similar. There was no difference in the need for a vasopressor treatment, and only transient higher serum lactate levels were found in the crystalloid group. The incidence of neurologic and organ-related adverse events, as well as 30-day mortality was comparable. CONCLUSION: The use of crystalloid priming is safe in coronary artery bypass grafting surgery in adults. However, there might be a greater need for crystalloid fluids during surgery.

Low-Volume Cardioplegia and Myocardial Protection in Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery.

We studied myocardial protection during coronary artery bypass graft surgery using low-volume cardioplegia (Cardioplexol) and minimal extracorporeal circulation (MECC) for different types of coronary artery diseases. In total, 426 consecutive patients were included and divided into four groups: those with left main stem stenosis (n = 45), those with three-vessel disease (n = 200), those with both (n = 141), and those with neither (n = 40). The peak postoperative myocardial markers and 30-day mortality were analyzed. Both myocardial markers and 30-day mortality were significantly elevated in patients with isolated main stem stenosis. We conclude that the use of low-volume cardioplegia and MECC is safe. However, patients with underlying isolated left main stem stenosis might be less protected.

Extracorporeal cellular therapy (ELAD) in severe alcoholic hepatitis: A multinational, prospective, controlled, randomized trial.

Severe alcoholic hepatitis (sAH) is associated with a poor prognosis. There is no proven effective treatment for sAH, which is why early transplantation has been increasingly discussed. Hepatoblastoma-derived C3A cells express anti-inflammatory proteins and growth factors and were tested in an extracorporeal cellular therapy (ELAD) study to establish their effect on survival for subjects with sAH. Adults with sAH, bilirubin ≥8 mg/dL, Maddrey's discriminant function ≥ 32, and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score ≤ 35 were randomized to receive standard of care (SOC) only or 3-5 days of continuous ELAD treatment plus SOC. After a minimum follow-up of 91 days, overall survival (OS) was assessed by using a Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. A total of 203 subjects were enrolled (96 ELAD and 107 SOC) at 40 sites worldwide. Comparison of baseline characteristics showed no significant differences between groups and within subgroups. There was no significant difference in serious adverse events between the 2 groups. In an analysis of the intent-to-treat population, there was no difference in OS (51.0% versus 49.5%). The study failed its primary and secondary end point in a population with sAH and with a MELD ranging from 18 to 35 and no upper age limit. In the prespecified analysis of subjects with MELD < 28 (n = 120), ELAD was associated with a trend toward higher OS at 91 days (68.6% versus 53.6%; P = .08). Regression analysis identified high creatinine and international normalized ratio, but not bilirubin, as the MELD components predicting negative outcomes with ELAD. A new trial investigating a potential benefit of ELAD in younger subjects with sufficient renal function and less severe coagulopathy has been initiated. Liver Transplantation 24 380-393 2018 AASLD.

Use of extracorporeal bypass is associated with improved outcomes in open thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair.

OBJECTIVE: There is no consensus on the use or benefit of extracorporeal circulation (EC) during aneurysm repair of the descending thoracic aorta (DTA) or thoracoabdominal aorta (TAA). We evaluated the role of EC during DTA or TAA aneurysm repair using U.S. Medicare data. METHODS: Medicare (2004-2007) patients undergoing open repair of nonruptured DTA or TAA aneurysm were identified by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code. Specific exclusions included ascending aortic or arch repairs, concomitant cardiac procedures, and procedures employing deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. The impact of EC (code 3961) on early and late outcomes was analyzed using univariate analysis and multivariable regression. Survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression models. RESULTS: There were 4230 patients who had repair of intact DTA or TAA aneurysms, 2433 (57%) of which employed EC. Differences in baseline clinical features of EC and non-EC patients showed that patients undergoing aortic reconstruction with EC were older (73 ± 1 years vs 72 ± 1 years; P = .002), were more likely to be female (53% vs 47%; P < .001), and had more hypertension (56% vs 53%; P = .02); they had less chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (28% vs 34%; P < .0001), peripheral vascular disease (5.7% vs 11.3%; P < .001), and chronic kidney disease (7.7% vs 5.5%; P = .003). The 30-day mortality (9.7% for EC vs 12.2%; P = .02) and any major complication (49% for EC vs 58%; P < .001) were significantly reduced with EC use. EC use was associated with a shorter length of stay (13.5 ± 13 days vs 17.2 ± 18 days; P < .01) and lower total hospital charges ($151,000 ± 140,000 vs $180,000 ± 190,000; P < .01) compared with non-EC patients. EC patients were more likely to be discharged home instead of to an extended care facility (67% vs 56%; P < .01). Multivariable regression modeling to adjust for baseline clinical differences showed EC to independently reduce the risk of operative mortality (odds ratio [OR], 0.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.65-0.97; P = .02), any complication (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.59-0.76; P < .01), pulmonary complications (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.59-0.79; P < .01), and acute renal failure (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.44-0.61; P < .01). Long-term survival was higher (log-rank, P < .01) in EC patients at 1 year (81% ± 0.8% vs 73% ± 1%) and 5 years (67% ± 1% vs 52% ± 1%). Risk-adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression also showed that EC was independently associated with improved long-term survival (hazard ratio, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.63-0.74; P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: Although important clinical variables such as DTA or TAA aneurysm extent and spinal cord ischemic complications cannot be assessed with the Medicare database, EC use during open DTA and TAA aneurysm repair is associated with improved late survival and a significant reduction in operative mortality, morbidity, and procedural costs. These data indicate that EC should be a more widely applied adjunct in open DTA or TAA aneurysm repair.

Venovenous Bypass Is Associated With a Lower Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury After Liver Transplantation in Patients With Compromised Pretransplant Renal Function.

BACKGROUND: Although the hemodynamic benefits of venovenous bypass (VVB) during liver transplantation (LT) are well appreciated, the impact of VVB on posttransplant renal function is uncertain. The aim of this study was to determine if VVB was associated with a lower incidence of posttransplant acute kidney injury (AKI). METHODS: Medical records of adult (≥18 years) patients who underwent primary LT between 2004 and 2014 at a tertiary hospital were reviewed. Patients who required pretransplant renal replacement therapy and intraoperative piggyback technique were excluded. Patients were divided into 2 groups, VVB and non-VVB. AKI, determined by the Acute Kidney Injury Network criteria, was compared between the 2 groups. Propensity match was used to control selection bias that occurred before VVB and multivariable logistic regression was used to control confounding factors during and after VVB. RESULTS: Of 1037 adult patients who met the study inclusion criteria, 247 (23.8%) received VVB. A total of 442 patients (221 patients in each group) were matched. Aftermatch patients were further divided according to a predicted probability AKI model using preoperative creatinine (Cr), VVB, and intraoperative variables into 2 subgroups: normal and compromised pretransplant renal functions. In patients with compromised pretransplant renal function (Cr ≥1.2 mg/dL), the incidence of AKI was significantly lower in the VVB group compared with the non-VVB group (37.2% vs 50.8%; P = .033). VVB was an independent risk factor negatively associated with AKI (odds ratio, 0.1; 95% confidence interval, 0.1-0.4; P = .001). Renal replacement in 30 days and 1-year recipient mortality were not significantly different between the 2 groups. The incidence of posttransplant AKI was not significantly different between the 2 groups in patients with normal pretransplant renal function (Cr <1.2 mg/dL). CONCLUSIONS: In this large retrospective study, we demonstrated that utilization of intraoperative VVB was associated with a significantly lower incidence of posttransplant AKI in patients with compromised pretransplant renal function. Further studies to assess the role of intraoperative VVB in posttransplant AKI are warranted.

A Neutrophil Phenotype Model for Extracorporeal Treatment of Sepsis.

Neutrophils play a central role in eliminating bacterial pathogens, but may also contribute to end-organ damage in sepsis. Interleukin-8 (IL-8), a key modulator of neutrophil function, signals through neutrophil specific surface receptors CXCR-1 and CXCR-2. In this study a mechanistic computational model was used to evaluate and deploy an extracorporeal sepsis treatment which modulates CXCR-1/2 levels. First, a simplified mechanistic computational model of IL-8 mediated activation of CXCR-1/2 receptors was developed, containing 16 ODEs and 43 parameters. Receptor level dynamics and systemic parameters were coupled with multiple neutrophil phenotypes to generate dynamic populations of activated neutrophils which reduce pathogen load, and/or primed neutrophils which cause adverse tissue damage when misdirected. The mathematical model was calibrated using experimental data from baboons administered a two-hour infusion of E coli and followed for a maximum of 28 days. Ensembles of parameters were generated using a Bayesian parallel tempering approach to produce model fits that could recreate experimental outcomes. Stepwise logistic regression identified seven model parameters as key determinants of mortality. Sensitivity analysis showed that parameters controlling the level of killer cell neutrophils affected the overall systemic damage of individuals. To evaluate rescue strategies and provide probabilistic predictions of their impact on mortality, time of onset, duration, and capture efficacy of an extracorporeal device that modulated neutrophil phenotype were explored. Our findings suggest that interventions aiming to modulate phenotypic composition are time sensitive. When introduced between 3-6 hours of infection for a 72 hour duration, the survivor population increased from 31% to 40-80%. Treatment efficacy quickly diminishes if not introduced within 15 hours of infection. Significant harm is possible with treatment durations ranging from 5-24 hours, which may reduce survival to 13%. In severe sepsis, an extracorporeal treatment which modulates CXCR-1/2 levels has therapeutic potential, but also potential for harm. Further development of the computational model will help guide optimal device development and determine which patient populations should be targeted by treatment.

Thrombectomy using suction filtration and veno-venous bypass: single center experience with a novel device.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the first single center experience with a novel aspiration thrombectomy device. BACKGROUND: The appearance of inferior vena cava or right-sided intracardiac thrombus may prompt consideration of percutaneous thrombectomy as a method to prevent new or worsening pulmonary embolism (PE). The AngioVac is a novel thrombectomy device composed of a cannula and extracorporeal circuit with filter for pump-assisted removal of intravascular debris which is coupled with a reinfusion catheter for return of blood to the patient. The device has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration since 2009. This report represents the first significant case series describing its use, feasibility and outcomes in evacuating large caval thrombi or intracardiac masses in PE. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of patient and case characteristics and in-hospital clinical outcomes of AngioVac thrombectomy in 14 consecutive patients treated between April 2010 and July 2013 at our institution. RESULTS: Fourteen consecutive patients (mean age 50, 64% female) underwent 15 AngioVac procedures over 40 months. Indications included intracardiac mass (73%), acute PE (33%), and caval thrombus (73%). Four patients (27%) were in shock at the start of the procedure. Peri-procedure mortality was 0% and in-hospital mortality was 13% at a mean follow-up of 23 days. There were no pulmonary hemorrhages, strokes or myocardial infarctions. Though 73% had a post procedural drop in hematocrit, only two bleeding events were related to access site and required a transfusion. CONCLUSIONS: AngioVac thrombectomy is feasible in critically ill patients with acute DVT or PE and large caval thrombi or intracardiac masses.

Survival on biventricular mechanical support with the Centrimag® as a bridge to decision: a single-center risk stratification.

OBJECTIVE: Temporary mechanical assist devices are increasingly being used as a lifesaving bridge to decision in patients requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We report our single-center experience with biventricular Centrimag® pumps over a five-year period. METHOD: Data was retrospectively collected in consecutive patients who required biventricular support from 2008 to 2013. Patients who were supported with central cannulation using the Centrimag® system were analyzed. In addition to demographic information, data pertaining to indications, outcomes and mortality were collected. RESULTS: The cohort consisted of 48 patients (19 women and 29 men, mean age of 56 years). The median duration of support was 14 days. The median duration to patient expiration while still on the Centrimag® was 12 days. Thirty-day survival was 56% (27/48). Nine patients were explanted to recovery, while fourteen patients were converted to a durable LVAD, two of whom were then transplanted. We stratified patients into two groups. Group I comprised patients who were either explanted to recovery, converted to durable LVAD or transplanted (23/48) and Group II consisted of patients who either died on the Centrimag® or were explanted for withdrawal of care (25/48). Statistical analysis did not reveal any clinically significant differences between the two groups in terms of age, sex, etiology, hemodynamic, co-morbidities or laboratory parameters. CONCLUSION: The biventricular Centrimag® can be used as a bridge to decision in patients with thirty-day survival of >50%. Parameters to predict 30-day survival in this high-risk cohort continue to remain elusive.

Minimally invasive versus conventional extracorporeal circulation in minimally invasive cardiac valve surgery.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation (MECC) technology was applied predominantly in coronary surgery. Data regarding the application of MECC in minimally invasive valve surgery are missing largely. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients undergoing isolated minimally invasive mitral or aortic valve procedures were allocated either to conventional extracorporeal circulation (CECC) group (n = 63) or MECC group (n = 105), and their prospectively generated data were analyzed. RESULTS: Demographic data were comparable between the groups regarding age (CECC vs. MECC: 71.0 ± 7.5 vs. 66.2 ± 10.1 years, p = 0.091) and logistic EuroSCORE I (6.2 ± 2.5 vs. 5.4 ± 3.0, p = 0.707). Hospital mortality was one patient in each group (1.6 vs. 1.0%, p = 0.688). The levels of leukocytes were lower in the MECC group (11.6 ± 3.2 vs. 9.4 ± 4.3 109/L, p = 0.040). Levels of platelets (137.2 ± 45.5 vs. 152.4 ± 50.3 109/L, p = 0.015) and hemoglobin (103.3 ± 11.3 vs. 107.3 ± 14.7 g/L, p = 0.017) were higher in the MECC group. Renal function was better preserved (creatinine: 1.1 ± 0.4 vs. 0.9 ± 0.2 mg/dL, p = 0.019). We were able to validate shorter time of postoperative ventilation (9.5 ± 15.1 vs. 6.3 ± 3.4 h, p = 0.054) as well as significantly shorter intensive care unit (ICU) stay (1.8 ± 1.3 vs. 1.2 ± 1.0 d, p = 0.005) for MECC patients. The course of C-reactive protein did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSION: We were able to prove the feasibility of MECC even in minimally invasive performed mitral and aortic valve procedures. In addition, the use of MECC provides decreased platelet consumption and less hemodilution. The use of MECC in these selected patients lead to a shorter ventilation time and ICU stay.

Effects of fractionated plasma separation and adsorption on survival in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Fractionated plasma separation and adsorption (FPSA) is an extracorporeal procedure that supports liver function by removing endogenous toxins that cause complications from acute-on-chronic liver failure (AOCLF). We performed a randomized trial to investigate survival of patients with AOCLF treated with FPSA. METHODS: Patients with AOCLF were randomly assigned to groups given a combination of FPSA and standard medical therapy (SMT) (FPSA group, n = 77) or only SMT (SMT group, n = 68). The Prometheus liver support system was used to provide 8 to 11 rounds of FPSA (minimum of 4 hours each) for 3 weeks. Primary end points were survival probabilities at days 28 and 90, irrespective of liver transplantation. RESULTS: Baseline clinical parameters and number of transplant patients were similar between study arms. Serum bilirubin level decreased significantly in the FPSA group but not in the SMT group. In an intention-to-treat analysis, the probabilities of survival on day 28 were 66% in the FPSA group and 63% in the SMT group (P = .70); on day 90, they were 47% and 38%, respectively (P = .35). Baseline factors independently associated with poor prognosis were high SOFA score, bleeding, female sex, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, intermediate increases in serum creatinine concentration, and combination of alcoholic and viral etiology of liver disease. There were no differences between the 2 groups in the incidence of side effects. CONCLUSIONS: Among all patients with AOCLF, extracorporeal liver support with FPSA does not increase the probability of survival. Further studies are needed to assess whether therapy might be beneficial in specific subsets of patients.

Nonconvulsive seizures are common in children treated with extracorporeal cardiac life support.

OBJECTIVES: The prevalence of electrographic seizures or nonconvulsive status epilepticus and the effect of such seizures in children treated with extracorporeal cardiac life support are not known. We investigated the occurrence of electrographic abnormalities, including asymmetries in amplitude or frequency of the background rhythm and interictal activity in children undergoing extracorporeal cardiac life support and their association with seizures. We compared mortality and radiologic evidence of neurologic injury between patients with seizures and those without seizures. DESIGN: Retrospective review of medical records and the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization database. SETTING: PICU at a single institution. PATIENTS: All pediatric patients up to 18 years old, who had extracorporeal cardiac life support and continuous electroencephalography monitoring between the years 2006 and 2011. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Nineteen patients treated with extracorporeal cardiac life support underwent continuous electroencephalography monitoring. Seizures occurred in four patients (21%) and were exclusively nonconvulsive in three patients. Two of these four patients had nonconvulsive status epilepticus. Interictal discharges on electroencephalography were associated with seizures (odds ratio, 19.5 [95% CI, 1.29-292.75]; p = 0.03). Only 50% of the seizures were detected in the first hour of monitoring, whereas all seizures were detected within 24 hours. All patients with seizures had structural abnormalities seen on neuroimaging. Seizures were not significantly associated with increased mortality. To evaluate for ascertainment bias, we compared outcomes between patients who underwent extracorporeal cardiac life support and received continuous electroencephalography monitoring and those patients who underwent extracorporeal cardiac life support during the study period but did not receive electroencephalography (n = 30). CONCLUSIONS: Seizures are common in children during extracorporeal cardiac life support, and most seizures are nonconvulsive. In patients undergoing extracorporeal cardiac life support, clinical features are unreliable indicators of the presence of seizures. The presence of seizures is suggestive of CNS injury. This study is limited by the exclusion of neonates, a feature of the clinical use of electroencephalography at our institution. Although seizures were not associated with increased mortality, further prospective studies in larger populations are needed to assess the long-term morbidity associated with seizures during extracorporeal cardiac life support.

Surgery on extracorporeal circulation in early and advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

BACKGROUND: Locally advanced (T4) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is principally amenable to surgery. For radical resection of cardiovascular structures, extracorporeal circulation (ECC) may be required. Tumor dissemination is a concern in this situation. In this study, we evaluate the long-term results of T4 NSCLC surgery with ECC and compare them with combined cardiopulmonary surgery for early-stage NSCLC and heart disease. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 16 patients undergoing surgery on ECC over a 13-year period. Eight patients suffered from T4 NSCLC (group A), and another eight patients suffered from coincidental T1-T2 NSCLC and heart disease (group B). RESULTS: In group A, five patients received neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy. Complete resection was achieved in all patients. Thirty-day mortality was one patient (12.5%) in each group. Six patients died from recurrent cancer with a median survival of 13.6 months in group A. Prognosis in patients with direct tumor invasion of the aortopulmonary window was a lot worse compared to those with atrial infiltration. One T4 patient who had only received surgery survived for 155 months without relapse. In group B, no NSCLC relapse occurred, and median survival was 21.6 months. All but one death in group B occurred due to cardiovascular incidents. CONCLUSIONS: Surgery on ECC for T4 NSCLC gives satisfactory results. The site of infiltration appears to be most important for local tumor relapse. Long-term survival is possible in some cases. Simultaneous cardiac and pulmonary surgery resulted in good early and midterm outcomes without surgery-induced tumor propagation.

[Cardiorenal syndrome: limits of heart failure therapy]. / Kardiorenales Syndrom : Grenzen der Herzinsuffizienztherapie.

The cardiorenal syndrome is an interdisciplinary challenge with increasing health economic relevance. Renal failure is a strong predictor for mortality in patients with severe congestive heart failure (CHF) and CHF is one of the fastest increasing morbidities in western countries. For successful therapy a close cooperation between cardiology und nephrology is required. Moreover, a good compliance of the patient is needed to improve symptoms and to reduce the frequency of cardiac decompensation. A broad cardiological and nephrological evaluation and consideration of optimal conservative options according to national and international guidelines are essential. However, a renal replacement therapy might be helpful in patients with refractory heart failure even if they are not dialysis-dependent. In cases of acute heart and renal failure an intensive care management might be necessary to reduce volume overload with the help of extracorporeal ultrafiltration or a dialysis modality. Nevertheless, in cases of chronic refractory CHF peritoneal dialysis should be preferred. The first analysis of the registry of the German Society of Nephrology (http://www.herz-niere.de) confirmed that there is a benefit for health-related quality of life in chronic CHF patients treated with peritoneal dialysis.

Reduced 30-day mortality in men after elective coronary artery bypass surgery with minimized extracorporeal circulation-a propensity score analysis.

BACKGROUND: Impact of minimized extracorporeal circulation (MECC) for coronary surgery on mortality remains controversial and gender significantly influence outcome. METHODS: We analyzed 3,139 male patients undergoing elective coronary surgery between 01/2004 and 05/2009. Using propensity score matching after binary logistic regression, 1,005 patients (from 1,119 patients) undergoing surgery with MECC could be matched with 1,005 patients (from 2,020 patients) undergoing surgery with conventional extracorporeal circulation (CECC). Primary outcome was 30-day mortality. RESULTS: Unadjusted 30-day mortality was 2.7% in patients with CECC and 0.8% in those with MECC (mean difference -1.9%; p < 0.001). The adjusted mean difference (average treatment effect of the treated) after matching was -1.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) -2.6 to -0.4; p = 0.006). Postoperative hospital stay was shorter in patients operated with minimized systems (adjusted mean difference -0.8 days; 95% CI -1.46 to -0.09; p = 0.03) and incidence of postoperative neurocognitive dysfunction was also lower (adjusted mean difference -1.3%; 95% CI -2.2 to -0.4; p = 0.001). Chest tube drainage (adjusted mean difference +22 mL; 95% CI -47 to 91; p = 0.5) and risk for acute kidney injury, kidney injury and failure according to RIFLE criteria (adjusted mean difference -1.0%; 95% CI -2.5 to 0.6; p = 0.24) proved to be insignificant between both groups. Apart from reduced 30-day mortality, however, average treatment effects for intensive care unit stay, postoperative hospital stay, chest tube drainage and kidney injury did not significantly differ. CONCLUSION: Using propensity score analysis, we observed an association between MECC and reduced 30-day mortality in men, but our results call for further analysis.

Neonatal extracorporeal life support: will the newest technology reduce morbidity?

The objectives of this review are to describe the Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) research at the Penn State Pediatric Cardiovascular Research evaluating new pediatric ECLS components and to discuss a proposed continuous quality improvement model after implementation of new technology. Review of current literature pertaining to studies at the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital (PSHCH) is presented along with a retrospective chart review of ECLS pediatric patients from January 2000 to June 2010. We describe improvements in the newest hollow-fiber oxygenator demonstrating a lower pressure drop (compared with silicone), and in the newest RotaFlow centrifugal pump which allows higher hemodynamic energy delivered to the patient at higher flow rates with less retrograde flow. The miniaturized pediatric circuit implemented is portable and primes quickly for rapid deployment. Our model of continuous quality improvement includes in-depth evaluation of all circuit component performance through on-site in vivo and in vitro testing at the PSHCH. We utilize the same model to provide comprehensive education and hands-on training of the staff. This cycle can be repeated for evaluation and implementation of any new circuit component. Our comprehensive approach to ECLS may provide the ideal means from which to safely introduce new technology.

Percutaneous cannulation for extracorporeal life support.

BACKGROUND: Extracorporeal life-support systems are valuable tools to treat patients with acute cardiopulmonary failure in intensive care facilities, and are highly suitable for the interhospital transfer of critically ill patients to specialized centers. This article reviews the cannulation strategies and associated vascular complications in our institution. METHODS: Between January 2004 and December 2009, 464 extracorporeal life-support systems were implanted via percutaneous cannulation at our institution. The type and incidence of adverse events related to the percutaneous access to femoral, subclavian vessels and the jugular vein were retrospectively analyzed. The primary focus was on bleeding and limb ischemia. RESULTS: 464 patients (340 male, 124 female) with isolated pulmonary or combined cardiopulmonary failure were connected to extracorporeal gas exchange systems. Most patients (n = 196) were connected to a PECLA system; 158 patients to a veno-arterial ECMO. Use of a veno-venous ECMO system was necessary in 110 cases. Thirty-two patients (6.9 %) suffered bleeding complications after cannula insertion, predominantly after PECLA placement (3.9 %). After implantation, limb ischemia developed in 15 cases (3.2 %), mostly in the veno-arterial ECMO group (n = 13). Demographic data and cannula size show no significant difference between patient groups with and without ischemic complications ( P = 0.57). A prophylactic fasciotomy was performed in the 15 cases with limb ischemia. Survival was independent of ischemic (leg) complications. CONCLUSION: With proper vessel visualization, exposure and cannulation, and accurate cannula placement, optimal flows and minimal complication rates can be achieved, rendering percutaneous extracorporeal life support a safe procedure.

Contemporary results of standard open repair of acute traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta.

BACKGROUND: Open repair of acute traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta has been the standard of care for the past half century. Traditional criteria of operative success have been patient survival and prevention of spinal cord ischemia. Historical series have reported a variability of surgical results with relation to the variety of operative approaches. This study aims to update the results obtained with a uniform surgical technique based on a systematic utilization of distal perfusion during aortic cross-clamping. METHODS: During a 35-year period (1974-2009), 138 consecutive patients with an acute traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta were repaired with a Dacron graft interposition through a standard left thoracotomy. All patients received a method of circulatory support. A passive 9-mm Gott shunt inserted between the ascending and the descending aorta and delivering a median flow of 3 L/min was used in the first 40 cases. A partial left heart bypass realized from the left atrium to the descending aorta and driven with a centrifugal pump was used in the last 98 consecutive cases. A median flow of 4 L/min was recorded. Mean age of the patients was 27 years and 90.6% of them had associated injuries for a calculated mean ISS of 44. RESULTS: Two outcome variables were analyzed: hospital mortality and postoperative spinal cord ischemic injury. Overall hospital mortality is 5% (7/138 patients). This was improved from 7.5% (3/40) in patients perfused with the Gott shunt to 4% (4/98) in patients protected with the left heart bypass and lowered to 1.5% (1/68) in the last 68 patients. Among 134 cases with an intact preoperative spinal cord, one patient (0.7%) developed a new paraplegia due to a nonfunctional Gott shunt. Among 98 patients perfused with a centrifugal pump-driven left heart bypass, none of the 97 patients (0%) with a preoperative intact spinal cord developed a spinal cord ischemic deficit. CONCLUSION: Conventional open surgical repair of acute traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta performed with an orderly monitored circulatory support can be accomplished with a very low rate of mortality and spinal cord injury. Compared with the Gott shunt, a left heart bypass propelled with a centrifugal pump is technically a more versatile method of perfusion, and it provides higher hemodynamic performance.