Open AccessCoagulation in pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A systematic review of studies shows lack of standardized reporting
Author(s) -
Drop Joppe,
Van Den Helm Suelyn,
Monagle Paul,
Wildschut Enno,
Hoog Matthijs,
Gunput Sabrina T.G.,
Newall Fiona,
Dalton Heidi J.,
MacLaren Graeme,
Ignjatovic Vera,
Ommen C. Heleen
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
research and practice in thrombosis and haemostasis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2475-0379
DOI - 10.1002/rth2.12687
Subject(s) - medicine , extracorporeal membrane oxygenation , coagulation testing , population , data extraction , intensive care medicine , cochrane library , medline , coagulation , emergency medicine , surgery , randomized controlled trial , environmental health , political science , law
Abstract Objectives Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) involves complex coagulation management and frequent hemostatic complications. ECMO practice between centers is variable. To compare results between coagulation studies, standardized definitions and clear documentation of ECMO practice is essential. We assessed how study population, outcome definitions, and ECMO‐, coagulation‐, and transfusion‐related parameters were described in pediatric ECMO studies. Data sources Embase, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. Study selection English original studies of pediatric ECMO patients describing hemostatic tests or outcome. Data extraction Eligibility was assessed following PRISMA guidelines. Study population, outcome and ECMO‐, coagulation, and transfusion parameters were summarized. Data synthesis A total of 107 of 1312 records were included. Study population parameters most frequently included (gestational) age (79%), gender (60%), and (birth) weight (59%). Outcomes, including definitions of bleeding (29%), thrombosis (15%), and survival (43%), were described using various definitions. Description of pump type, oxygenator and cannulation mode occurred in 49%, 45%, and 36% of studies, respectively. The main coagulation test (53%), its reference ranges (49%), and frequency of testing (24%) were the most prevalent reported coagulation parameters. The transfusion thresholds for platelets, red blood cells, and fibrinogen were described in 27%, 18%, and 18% of studies, respectively. Conclusions This systematic review demonstrates a widespread lack of detail or standardization of several parameters in coagulation research of pediatric ECMO patients. We suggest several parameters that might be included in future coagulation studies. We encourage the ECMO community to adopt and refine this list of parameters and to use standardized definitions in future research.