Low Flow Venoarterial ECMO Support Management in Postcardiac Surgery Patient

Abstract

AbstractVenoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) aims to fully support heart and lung function in postcardiac patients, ensuring end-organ perfusion and allowing time for possible heart recovery. VA ECMO is considered the modified and extended form of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), which is used to provide adequate tissue oxygenation. ECMO and the associated management protocols will mechanically support the patient and allow for the optimization of all aspects of care for the period of time necessary for the recovery of native cardiac or respiratory function. Significant technical advancements have been made in the equipment and the clinical management available for short- and long-term ECMO application. There are various parameters that have to be considered to evaluate whether the level of perfusion in patients on VA ECMO is adequate, and the outcomes of patients depend on them.