In patients supported with peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, what factors are associated with the development of spinal cord ischaemia?

A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was in patients supported with peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO), what factors are associated with the development of spinal cord ischaemia? Altogether more than 22 papers were found using the reported search, of which 10 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. Of the 28 patients reported by included studies, the thoracic spinal cord was most commonly affected. Twenty patients (71%) survived to hospital discharge and 7 (25%) were reported to have neurological recovery. Potential confounders included coronary angiography, cardiac arrest requiring chest compressions and concomitant intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP). Consequently, all papers highlighted the likely multifactorial aetiology of SCI in these patients. We propose that close neurological observation, particularly in patients who have received chest compressions, and management of potential aetiological factors is crucial to aid in timely diagnosis and potential prevention of this rare complication. Limiting sedation and neuromuscular blockade to enable neurologic assessment of the lower limbs may allow more timely diagnosis.