Central nervous system complications during pediatric extracorporeal life support: Incidence and risk factors*

Patients who have metabolic acidosis, a bicarbonate or inotrope/vasopressor requirement, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or a left ventricular assist device before initiation of ECLS are at greater risk for development of CNS complications. After initiation of ECLS, patients who develop renal failure or metabolic acidosis or undergo venoarterial ECLS should be closely monitored for development of CNS complications.