The Italian ECMO network experience during the 2009 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic: preparation for severe respiratory emergency outbreaks.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

In view of the expected 2009 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic, the Italian Health Authorities set up a national referral network of selected intensive care units (ICU) able to provide advanced respiratory care up to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We describe the organization and results of the network, known as ECMOnet.

Methods

The network consisted of 14 ICUs with ECMO capability and a national call center. The network was set up to centralize all severe patients to the ECMOnet centers assuring safe transfer. An ad hoc committee defined criteria for both patient transfer and ECMO institutions.

Results

Between August 2009 and March 2010, 153 critically ill patients (53% referred from other hos

SUBMITTER: Patroniti N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7080128 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature