Initiation of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for cardiogenic shock during out of hours versus working hours is not associated with increased mortality.

Background: Initiation of veno-arterial (VA) Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenator (ECMO) is associated with severe complications. It is unknown whether these adverse consequences occur more often after initiations during out of hours service compared to working hours.

Methods: All patients receiving VA-ECMO for cardiogenic shock between 2009 and 2020 were categorized into a working hours group (between 8 am and 5 pm on weekdays) and an out of hours service group (between 5 pm and 8 am, or between Friday 5 pm and Monday 8 am).

Twelve years of circulatory extracorporeal life support at the University Medical Centre Utrecht.

Introduction: Circulatory extracorporeal life support (ECLS) has been performed at the University Medical Centre Utrecht for 12 years. During this time, case mix, indications, ECLS set-ups and outcomes seem to have substantially changed. We set out to describe these characteristics and their evolution over time.

Introducing high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy at the intermediate care unit: expanding the range of supportive pulmonary care.

Background: Non-invasive respiratory support is a frequent indication for intermediate care unit (IMCU) admission. Extending the possibilities of respiratory support at the IMCU with high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC) may prevent intensive care unit (ICU) transfer and invasive ventilation. However, the safety and limitations of HFNC administration in the stand-alone IMCU setting are not yet studied.

Echocardiography in extracorporeal life support: A key player in procedural guidance, tailoring and monitoring.

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is a mainstay of current practice in severe respiratory, circulatory or cardiac failure refractory to conventional management. The inherent complexity of different ECLS modes and their influence on the native pulmonary and cardiovascular system require patient-specific tailoring to optimize outcome. Echocardiography plays a key role throughout the ECLS care, including patient selection, adequate placement of cannulas, monitoring, weaning and follow-up after decannulation.