Antithrombin Levels and Heparin Responsiveness during Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Prospective Single-center Cohort Study.

Background: Unfractionated heparin, administered during venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation to prevent thromboembolic events, largely depends on plasma antithrombin for its antithrombotic effects. Decreased heparin responsiveness seems frequent on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; however, its association with acquired antithrombin deficiency is poorly understood. The objective of this study was to describe longitudinal changes in plasma antithrombin levels during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support and evaluate the association between antithrombin levels and heparin responsiveness.

Moving towards green anaesthesia: Are patient safety and environmentally friendly practices compatible? A focus on single-use devices.

Objective: Discuss if the use of disposable or reusable medical devices leads to a difference in terms of hospital-acquired infection or bacterial contamination. Determine which solution is less expensive and has less environmental impact in terms of carbon footprint, energy and water consumption and amount of waste.

Methods: We carried out a narrative review.