Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for refractory septic shock in children

Abstract

Children are susceptible to developing sepsis. Among its complications, septic shock is the most severe. Refractory septic shock (RSS) is defined as septic shock that is unresponsive to standard resuscitation. As the most severe complication of sepsis in children, refractory septic shock (RSS) is characterized by its rapid development and high mortality rate. In accordance with relevant guidelines and consensus, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is recommended as a salvage therapy for the treatment of RSS in children. However, various controversies and difficulties still exists when ECMO is used to treat children with RSS. Thus, this review summarizes the current status, difficulties, and explorations of applying ECMO to the treatment of RSS in children.