Is Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for a Neonate Ever Ethically Obligatory?

J Pediatr. 2018 Apr:195:297-301. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.11.018. Epub 2017 Dec 13.

Abstract

Certain interventions in the neonatal intensive care unit are considered ethically obligatory, and should be provided over parental objections. After reviewing a case, comparative outcome data, and relevant ethical principles, we propose that extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for meconium aspiration syndrome may, in some cases, be an ethically obligatory treatment.

Keywords: meconium aspiration syndrome; newborn; respiratory failure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation / ethics*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Jehovah's Witnesses*
  • Male
  • Meconium Aspiration Syndrome / therapy*
  • Parental Consent / ethics*
  • Patient Rights / ethics*