Purpose of the study: The purpose of this literature review was to provide an overview of how programs around the world are organised regarding the use of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) for refractory out of hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).Material and Method: A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Clinicaltrials.gov, Clinicaltrialsregister.eu and Cochrane Library. The main parameters assessed were, article type, region size, population size, patient inclusion and exclusion criteria, procedure location, team composition, outcome parameters. Data is presented as Median (Min-Max).Results: Fifty-eight articles were eligible for inclusion according to the predefined criteria. One randomised trial had been published and 4 were ongoing. Among the 58 published articles, 47 transported the patient to the hospital for cannulation, 10 initiated ECPR on-scene and one did both. The organisations cover different populations sizes (2 226 263 [30 788 - 19 303 000 inhabitants]). The most common inclusion criteria were an upper age limit (83%, 70 [50 to 80]) followed by witnessed collapse (67%) and initial shockable rhythm (43%), also asystole, PEA, pulmonary embolism, signs of life during CPR were accepted in 3%, 5%, 2% and 5% of the studies. The most common exclusion criteria were major comorbidities (36%). ECPR teams consisted of 3 members (2-8) and had various compositions. Of the 44 studies reporting outcomes, 35 (77%) reported a median survival to hospital discharge of 28% that ranged between 0%-69%. One-, 3- and 6-month survival was reported by 14%, 5%, 7% and CPC-score 1-2 by 50% of the studies.Conclusions: Within the published literature organisations vary greatly in regional size, team composition, inclusion- and exclusion-criteria, where the procedure is performed, reported outcomes. These discrepancies make it difficult to determine how to use ECPR for refractory OHCA in the most effective manner.

Organisational approaches to the use of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation for refractory out of hospital cardiac arrest: a systematic literature review

Implementation of the Guidelines - How do we put the new ERC Guidelines into practice?

On 16 and 17 June, we are organising our first-ever hybrid congress. You will be able to join us live at the beautiful conference venue in Antwerp, Belgium and present your Poster. 

We are happy to welcome you to Resuscitation 2022!