Transport of critically ill children on cardiopulmonary support assistance

Maher K Eldadah1, Monica C Olsen, Harun Fakioglu

  • 1Congenital Heart Institute at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Orlando, Florida 32806, USA.

Insights

Two pediatric patients with sudden cardiac deterioration underwent helicopter transport on cardiopulmonary support (CPS) for heart transplantation. This highlights the need for rapid inter-hospital transport protocols for critical cardiac care.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Transport Medicine

Background:

  • Sudden cardiac deterioration can necessitate urgent heart transplantation.
  • Early referral to transplant centers may not always be feasible due to acute events.

Observation:

  • Two pediatric patients (9 kg and 22 kg) experienced critical cardiac decline.
  • Mechanical cardiopulmonary support (CPS) was initiated to stabilize failing cardiac function.

Findings:

  • Successful helicopter transport on CPS was achieved for both patients to a transplant institution.
  • Heart transplantation was identified as the most viable recovery option.

Implications:

  • Heart centers must establish robust protocols for inter-hospital transport using cardiopulmonary support (CPS).
  • Transport strategies can involve the referring, receiving, or a third-party institution.
  • Timely and effective transport is crucial for pediatric patients requiring emergent heart transplantation.
Abstract

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