Long-term health-related quality of life in pediatric ECMO survivors: a prospective controlled study

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is associated with neurological complications and potential long-term effects on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), when compared to healthy peers.¹ This prospective cross sectional matched case control study evaluated HRQoL, as well as neurodevelopmental, motor and cognitive outcomes in pediatric ECMO survivors.

Forty-two ECMO survivors supported with ECMO (2014-2023) were matched with 42 pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) survivors. HRQoL was assessed using the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Questionnaire.

HRQoL scores were slightly lower in the ECMO group, with a mean adjusted difference for HRQoL total score of -5.4, 95%CI -10.6 to -0.3, p = 0.040. Physical functioning was lower in the ECMO group, with a mean adjusted difference of -9.6, 95%CI -16.8 to -2.5, p = 0.009. Among other outcome measures reported, executive function complaints affected approximately one third of the cohort and were associated with impaired HRQoL.

ECMO survivors show minor differences in HRQoL compared with matched PICU survivors except for physical functioning. Both groups demonstrate executive function impairments. ECMO survivors require structured post‑ICU follow‑up to address physical and cognitive needs.

ECMO survivors show minor differences compared to matched PICU survivors, except for physical functioning. Both groups have a high rate of executive function impairments during later neuropsychological testing. ECMO survivors should be included in post-ICU follow-up programs. Long-term health-related quality of life in pediatric ECMO survivors: a prospective controlled study.