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Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for hydrocarbon aspiration
A J Scalzo1, T R Weber, R W Jaeger
1Departments of Pediatrics/Adolescent Medicine, St Louis University School of Medicine, Mo.
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|August 1, 1990
Summary
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) successfully treated two infants with severe hydrocarbon aspiration. This therapy offers a life-saving option for pediatric patients unresponsive to conventional treatments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Critical Care Medicine
- Cardiopulmonary Bypass Technology
Background:
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a temporary cardiopulmonary bypass for acute respiratory and cardiac failure.
- ECMO has been utilized in neonates since 1977 for various pulmonary conditions.
- Its application in older children with pulmonary disorders remains limited.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of severe hydrocarbon aspiration (baby oil and furniture polish) are presented.
- Both patients developed intractable hypoxemia despite maximal ventilatory support.
- They were considered candidates for alternative life-saving therapies.
Findings:
- Successful treatment of hydrocarbon aspiration using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in two pediatric patients.
- Demonstrated efficacy of ECMO in managing severe hypoxemia secondary to hydrocarbon ingestion.
- Highlighted the successful use of ECMO in a case involving a low-viscosity hydrocarbon (baby oil).
Implications:
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a viable and potentially life-saving therapeutic option for pediatric hydrocarbon aspiration.
- Suggests expanding the consideration of ECMO for older children with severe pulmonary compromise from toxic inhalations.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering ECMO when conventional treatments fail in critical pediatric respiratory conditions.