Long-Term Pulmonary Function Outcomes in Patients Treated with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO): Analyzing Changes in Pulmonary Function Tests Over Time

Authors: Salem A. Alshahrani

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13254174

Short DOI: https://doi.org/gt6h2g

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Objective: This study investigates long-term pulmonary function outcomes in patients treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), specifically focusing on changes in pulmonary function tests (PFTs) over time.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 50 ECMO patients. Pulmonary function tests, including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO), were measured at baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months post-ECMO. Statistical analyses assessed changes over time and the impact of factors such as ECMO indication, duration, and patient age.

Results: FVC and FEV1 remained relatively stable throughout the follow-up period. However, DLCO showed a significant decline from baseline to each follow-up period (p < 0.05). Predictive factors such as primary ECMO indication (ARDS), longer ECMO duration, and older age were associated with poorer long-term pulmonary outcomes.

Conclusion: While overall lung volumes (FVC and FEV1) remained stable, patients exhibited a significant decline in DLCO, suggesting persistent impairments in gas exchange. The impact of ECMO indications, duration, and age underscores the need for long-term monitoring and targeted interventions to address pulmonary complications.

Keywords: ECMO, pulmonary function, diffusing capacity, long-term outcomes, ARDS, respiratory therapy.

Paper Id: 230830

Published On: 2021-05-06

Published In: Volume 9, Issue 3, May-June 2021

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