Background:Mechanical circulatory support, and specifically extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation, plays a critical role in managing paediatric cardiac patients with severe heart failure. Whilst these technologies are vital for bridging patients to recovery or heart transplantation, it is imperative to study the influence of extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation on neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Objectives:This systematic review aimed to evaluate the influence of extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation on neurodevelopmental outcomes in paediatric cardiac patients, both post-cardiotomy and non-cardiotomy patients were included.

Methodology:A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, and PsychInfo to identify primary research articles exploring the effects of extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation on neurodevelopmental outcomes in paediatric heart patients from inception to June 2024.

Results:Our search yielded 5488 papers of which eight papers were included featuring 302 patients.

Conclusion:The discussion highlights the considerable variability in neurodevelopmental outcomes and how they are measured among extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation survivors. Outcomes vary by patient factors, with recovery potential influenced by the duration and timing of follow-up. We emphasised the importance of standardised assessment tools and extended follow-ups to gain a clearer understanding of these outcomes.