European journal of pediatric surgery : official journal of Austrian Association of Pediatric Surgery ... [et al] = Zeitschrift für Kinderchirurgie
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Review Meta Analysis
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a systematic review of the evidence.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the evidence supporting the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and severe respiratory failure. ⋯ Non randomised studies suggest a reduction in mortality with ECMO. However, differences in the indications for ECMO and improvements in other treatment modalities may contribute to this reduction. The meta-analysis of RCTs indicates a reduction in early mortality with ECMO but no long-term benefit. A large RCT in infants with CDH and severe respiratory failure is warranted.