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Superior vena cava obstruction after extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
H Zreik1, A R Bengur, J N Meliones
1Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction is a potential complication in neonates surviving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Researchers found no predisposing factors for SVC thrombus in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal medicine
- Cardiovascular surgery
- Pediatric critical care
Background:
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-support measure for neonates with severe cardiorespiratory failure.
- Superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction is a serious, yet poorly understood, complication following ECMO therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and potential predisposing factors of SVC obstruction in neonates who underwent ECMO.
- To highlight SVC thrombus as a significant complication after neonatal ECMO.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 60 neonates surviving ECMO between June 1992 and March 1994.
- Comparison of patients with and without SVC obstruction based on echocardiogram findings post-ECMO.
Main Results:
- Seven out of 60 neonates (11.7%) developed complete or partial SVC obstruction.
- No specific predisposing factors were identified for the development of SVC thrombus in the studied cohort.
Conclusions:
- SVC thrombus represents a significant complication in neonates treated with ECMO.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiology and identify preventative strategies for SVC obstruction post-ECMO.