Prospective Exploratory Experience With Bivalirudin Anticoagulation in Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Abstract

Bivalirudin appears to be a viable option for systemic anticoagulation in pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients who have failed unfractionated heparin, but questions remain namely its optimal monitoring strategy. This pilot study supports the need for larger prospective studies of bivalirudin in pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, particularly focusing on meaningful monitoring variables.