Full Neurological Recovery after Prolonged Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Integrated ECMO and CRRT for Reversible Metabolic Causes - Abstract
Background: The management of Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) remains challenging and controversial due to its poor prognosis. Once
resuscitation efforts are initiated, determining whether to continue or terminate the process is difficult, even with established Termination of Resuscitation (TOR)
guidelines. Additionally, managing Post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome (PCAS) complicates care, as it involves addressing ischemic injury, organ dysfunction, and
inflammatory responses. These challenges emphasize the need for tailored decision-making to optimize patient outcomes.
Case: We report a case of prolonged Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) in a 60-year-old male with end-stage renal disease and diabetes mellitus.
Despite a resuscitation time of 410 minutes, the patient achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) following timely intervention with extracorporeal
membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Hyperkalemia and hyperglycemia were identified as contributing factors to
the prolonged arrest. After successful resuscitation and management of Post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome (PCAS), including inflammatory modulation and targeted
therapies, the patient made a full neurological recovery (CPC 1) and was discharged without any organ dysfunction typically associated with cardiac arrest.
Conclusion: This case highlights the challenges of managing OHCA and offers key lessons. In cases with early bystander CPR, timely ECMO use can
address reversible causes of cardiac arrest, showing that even with prolonged resuscitation, favorable outcomes are possible. Given the complex and often
multifactorial nature of cardiac arrest, a comprehensive approach is essential. In managing PCAS, inflammatory modulation can be considered as a valuable
complement to traditional supportive care. Finally, when standard treatments may introduce complications, a cautious approach is necessary. Further studies
are needed to define optimal strategies for managing complex OHCA cases.