Experimental and clinical transplantation : official journal of the Middle East Society for Organ Transplantation
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Exp Clin Transplant · Nov 2016
Case ReportsVenoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support as a Bridge to Heart Transplant: Report of 3 Cases.
Heart transplant is the only definitive treatment of end-stage heart failure. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may be used as a bridge to heart transplant. Among 31 patients who underwent heart transplant between January 2014 and June 2016, we present our experiences with 3 patients who received venoarterial extracorporeal support as a bridge to heart transplant. ⋯ He underwent transplant on day 28 after intensive care unit admission. He died 29 days after release from the hospital. Regarding patients on heart transplant wait lists who are worsening despite optimal medical therapy, venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support is a safe and viable last resort.
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The aim of this study was to review and discuss the great variety of ethical issues related to organ donation, organ procurement, transplant activities, and new ethical problems created as a result of technologic and scientific developments. ⋯ The struggle against organ trafficking and commercialism should include legislation, efforts to increase deceased-donor donations, and international cooperation. China's policy to procure organs from prisoners sentenced to death is unethical, and the international community should exert more pressure on the Chinese government to cease this practice. Each particular ethical dilemma should be taken separately and managed.