Review Article Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in the Context of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza A Pandemic

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) incorporates surgical techniques as adjuncts in the management of refractory respiratory dysfunction. For many years, its primary application was for support of neonatal infants in cardiorespiratory failure. As the 2009 H1N1 influenza A pandemic developed, more reports came in of severe respiratory dysfunction and even death that seemed to be occurring preferentially in younger adults. Centers with the capability began to use ECMO to salvage these patients. Results: The H1N1 virus is a subtype of influenza A. The hemagglutinin receptor binding is similar to that of the seasonal influenza virus, but 2009 H1N1 also binds to a2,3-linked receptors, which are found in the conjunctivae, distal airways, and alveolar pneumocytes. Influenza viruses elude host immune responses through drift and shift in the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) proteins. The incubation period ranges from 1–7 days. The majority of patients present with fever and cough, but a broad spectrum of clinical syndromes has been reported, and laboratory testing remains the mainstay of diagnosis. Most patients recover within a week without treatment. The H1N1 virus remains largely sensitive to the NA inhibitors but is resistant to the matrix protein-2 inhibitors. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation provides continuous pulmonary (and sometimes cardiac) support and minimizes ventilator-induced lung injury. The potential for life-threatening complications is high. I