Perfusion
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Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation mandates balancing the risk of thromboembolic complications with bleeding. We aimed to evaluate pragmatic anticoagulation regimens during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and compare thromboembolic and bleeding outcomes. ⋯ There were no differences in thromboembolic or bleeding events when comparing different anticoagulant regimens. Adjustments to the anticoagulants are more likely to occur when bleeding is observed. Due to variability in anticoagulation, there is a need to standardize anticoagulation with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
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Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation represents the last therapy option in refractory cardiogenic shock. Successful weaning becomes difficult if the myocardial function recovers but pulmonary impairment persists. We present our experience with a new weaning strategy, using a stepwise mode-switch from veno-arterial to veno-veno-arterial and veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation setting for patients with primary cardiogenic shock and subsequent respiratory failure. ⋯ Mode-switch from veno-arterial to veno-veno-arterial and weaning via veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation mode is feasible for combined cardiac and pulmonary failure, with promising results due to an optimized pre-pulmonary oxygenation.
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Blastomyces is a dimorphic fungus endemic to regions of North America, which can lead to pneumonia and fatal severe acute respiratory diseases syndrome in up to 89% of patients. Extracorporeal life support can provide adequate oxygenation while allowing the lungs to rest and heal, which might be an ideal therapy in this patient group, although long-term clinical and radiological outcomes are not known. ⋯ Veno-venous extracorporeal life support can effectively provide prolonged support for patients with blastomycosis-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome that is safe and associated with favorable long-term outcomes.