Variation in Practice and Outcomes of Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) In Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) Between North American and European Centres

In brief

This study examines geographic differences in how North American versus European centers use extracorporeal life support (ECLS/ECMO) for newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia, comparing treatment protocols and patient outcomes. The research addresses previously identified practice variations to understand their clinical impact on this critically ill neonatal population.

• North American and European centers show significant variation in ECLS utilization patterns for CDH patients
• Indications for initiating ECLS in CDH infants differ between continents, suggesting lack of standardized protocols
• Geographic differences in ECLS management may impact survival outcomes in CDH, warranting comparative effectiveness research
• International practice variation highlights need for evidence-based consensus guidelines on ECLS timing and patient selection in CDH

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.