VV ECMO Part 4: Extubation, decannulation, and long-term effects
May 15, 2023
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Guest Jenna Miller, MD, discusses the key milestones for extubation on VV-ECMO, mobilization practices for different age groups, and long-term neurologic effects. Also covered are the weaning and decannulation process, procedural sedation, and the importance of collaboration in VV-ECMO.
Early initiation of mobility and rehabilitation, including wakefulness and parental engagement, can enhance the recovery process and overall well-being of patients on ECMO.
The decision to extubate or perform a tracheostomy in ECMO patients should be carefully considered based on factors such as the ability to manage secretions, lung condition, and airway protection.
Deep dives
Importance of Mobility and Rehabilitation for Patients on ECMO
Mobility and rehabilitation play a crucial role in the recovery process of patients on ECMO. Studies suggest that mobilizing patients in the ICU improves both their physical and psychological outcomes, leading to shorter hospital stays and improved overall condition. By promoting wakefulness, interaction with families, and avoiding global deconditioning, healthcare professionals aim to support the holistic healing of patients. Early initiation of mobility and rehabilitation is crucial, with sedatives and neuromuscular blockade being reduced or discontinued to allow patients to start moving within the first few days. Even neonates can benefit from mobility, focusing on wakefulness, oral stimulation, and holding by parents. Motor milestones for older children include sitting up, adjusting themselves in bed, playing games, and gradually progressing to standing and walking. Additionally, activities supporting mental health, such as engaging in virtual reality or art projects, can enhance the overall well-being of patients on ECMO.
Considerations for Extubation and Tracheostomy in ECMO Patients
The decision to extubate or perform a tracheostomy in ECMO patients depends on various factors. For extubation, ensuring that patients are awake and able to manage their own secretions is crucial. While extubation is preferred for asthmatic patients to avoid barotrauma, ARDS patients may require a gradual process with close monitoring before they can be extubated successfully. The use of nasal cannula or high flow oxygen post-extubation can provide psychological support and aid in the weaning process. Tracheostomy is considered for patients with long-term ventilator dependence or those being evaluated for lung transplants. Careful consideration of patient-specific factors, multidisciplinary collaboration, and assessing the ability to protect the airway are essential when choosing between extubation and tracheostomy.
Weaning and Liberation from ECMO Support
Weaning from VV ECMO support is determined by the patient's improving lung function and ability to contribute to gas exchange. Monitoring factors such as FIO2 levels, sweep settings, and clearance of the lungs on imaging can indicate the readiness for weaning. Sprinting trials are often conducted by temporarily reducing FIO2 and sweep to assess the patient's response. If the patient tolerates the trial well and shows adequate oxygenation and ventilation without the support of gas flow, a capping trial is initiated. During this trial, the patient remains connected to the circuit, but gas flow is disconnected, and gas exchange relies on the patient's lungs. The trial duration varies based on the duration of ECMO support. Successful completion of the trial indicates the patient's readiness for decannulation, which can involve procedures ranging from simple removal to re-intubation or tracheostomy, depending on the patient's condition.
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes and Follow-up for ECMO Patients
Neurodevelopmental outcomes are an important consideration for ECMO patients, and early intervention is crucial. Intracranial hemorrhage remains a concern, but studies show that regardless of the ECMO modality used, good neurodevelopmental outcomes can be achieved with appropriate management. Minimizing the use of neurosedatives, especially benzodiazepines, is recommended. Regular neurodevelopmental follow-up, which includes comprehensive evaluations by a multidisciplinary team, is essential for detecting deficits early and providing appropriate interventions. MRI scans are often conducted after the ECMO run to assess any potential injuries. Long-term outcomes may include seizures, hearing and vision problems, and developmental delays, although the percentages vary. The establishment of specialized clinics that provide ongoing support is vital for monitoring and addressing the needs of ECMO patients and their families.
Jenna Miller, MD is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. She completed her medical school and residency in Kansas City before moving to Texas Children’s for critical care fellowship. She is the director of the pediatric ECMO program and the pediatric critical care medicine fellowship at Children’s Mercy Kansas City. Her professional and research interests include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole ARDS, ECMO and medical education.
Dr John Daniel, MD is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. He completed his pediatric residency at the University of South Carolina and his neonatology fellowship at the University of Kentucky. He now is a practicing Neonatal Cardiac Intensivist and the director of the neonatal ECMO program at Children’s Mercy Kansas City.
Learning Objectives:
After listening to this episode, learners should be able to:
The Identify key networking opportunities within the ECMO world.
Understand the risks and benefits of VV-ECMO cannulation.
Discuss common and newer indications for VV-ECMO cannulation in neonates and school-aged children.
ECMO Patient Stories from Children’s Mercy Kansas City:
Maclare, Graeme, et al. Extracorporeal Life Support: The ELSO Red Book. 6th Edition.
Pelosi, er al. Close down the lungs + keep them resting to minimize ventilator induced lung injury.
Maharaj et al, Right Ventricular Dysfunction is Associated with Increased Mortality in Patients Requiring Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Coronavirus Disease 2019
Nirmal S Sharma et al. Flexible Bronchoscopy Is Safe and Effective in Adult Subjects Supported With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.
Rosner EA et al. Flexible Bronchoscopy in Pediatric Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.
Gurnani et al. Outcomes of Extubated COVID and Non-COVID Pat
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Thank you for listening to this episode of PedsCrit. Please remember that all content during this episode is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be used as medical advice. The views expressed during this episode by hosts and our guests are their own and do not reflect the official position of their institutions. If you have any comments, suggestions, or feedback-you can email us at pedscritpodcast@gmail.com. Check out http://www.pedscrit.comfor detailed show notes. And visit @critpeds on twitter and @pedscrit on instagram for real time show updates.
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