When stopping is just as important as starting: the challenge of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Abstract Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is a high-risk, high-cost intervention that often entails prolonged ICU and hospital stays. Its rapid evolution raises crucial questions of appropriateness, proportionality, and value. Whereas..
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Abstract Immediate recognition of cardiac arrest and the initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can significantly improve survival chances. The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation during CPR (eCPR) could further enhance..
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Abstract Perfusionists are central to life-sustaining interventions such as cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and mechanical circulatory support. While the technical dimensions of their work are well recognized,..
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It is well established that clinicians may decline requests for inappropriate interventions, including life-prolonging interventions. This position is supported by major professional organizations,, statutes and regulations, and case law. As such, the open..
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Abstract OBJECTIVE: To examine characteristics associated with formal ethics consultation (EC) referral in pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) cases, and document ethical issues presented. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study using mixed..
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Abstract Background has become accepted as a rescue therapy for cardiopulmonary shock, and there have been over 100,000 (ECMO) cases since 1987. Rapid growth has presented ethical challenges and concerns. Here, we discuss..
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