Emergent veno-arterial extra-corporeal membrane oxygenator support for refractory acute myocarditis in paediatric patients

Abstract

Acute myocarditis leading to severe heart failure in paediatric patients is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening condition. The prompt implant of mechanical circulatory devices such as veno-arterial extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation remains the best treatment option to restore an adequate perfusion and improve patient survival in case of refractory cardiogenic shock cases. While few reports describe the in-hospital course of this dramatic disease, with an in-hospital mortality under veno-arterial extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation support around 30%, our study aims to analyse both short- and long-term outcomes after extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation implant.

Keywords: Extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation; acute myocarditis; heart failure; paediatric cardiogenic shock; refractory cardiogenic shock.