Does Tracheostomy Improve Outcomes in Those Receiving Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation?

Patients receiving venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) often require extended periods of ventilation. We examined the role of tracheostomy on outcomes of patients supported with VV-ECMO. We reviewed all patients at our institution who received VV-ECMO between 2013 and 2019.

In a large-volume multidisciplinary setting individual surgeon volume does not impact LVAD outcomes.

Background: In complex operations surgeon volume may impact outcomes. We sought to understand if individual surgeon volume affects left ventricular assist device (LVAD) outcomes.

Methods: We reviewed primary LVAD implants at an experienced ventricular assist devices (VAD)/transplant center between 2013 and 2019.

Combination plate and band fixation for primary closure in bilateral lung transplantation.

Background: Sternal complications are common following transverse thoracosternotomy in patients undergoing bilateral lung transplantation. We present a single-institution experience using a next generation rigid fixation system for primary sternal closure following transverse sternotomy for bilateral lung transplantation.

Methods: Retrospective review was performed on all patients who had bilateral sequential lung transplants utilizing a transverse thoracosternotomy from 2016 to 2020.