ECMO Hemostatic Transfusions in Children

Critically ill children supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) receive large volumes of prophylactic platelet transfusions to prevent bleeding. However, mounting evidence has demonstrated significant morbidity and mortality associated with these transfusions. The ECmo hemoSTAtic Transfusions In Children (ECSTATIC) pilot trial will test two different platelet transfusion strategies, based on two different platelet counts thresholds, one high (higher platelet transfusion strategy) and one low (lower platelet transfusion strategy). The pilot will gather the necessary information to perform a full trial which will provide a better understanding of how to transfuse platelets to children supported by ECMO and reduce the associated morbidity.