When the heart and/or the lung fails: the ECMO
Giraud, R.; Siegenthaler, N.; Tassaux, D.; Richard, J.C.M.; Reverdin, S.; Cikirikcioglu, M.; Licker, M.J.; Bendjelid, K.; Brochard, L.
Revue Medicale Suisse 7(321): 2444-2451
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 1660-9379 PMID: 22279863 Document Number: 648034
The Extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was initially proposed as a technique of respiratory support using an external membrane oxygenator. With time, it has also become a technique of cardiorespiratory support to ensure both gas exchange and organ perfusion until the restoration of organs function. This technical assistance can be central or peripheral and provides a partial or total circulatory support. The circuit includes a non occlusive centrifugal pump, an oxygenator for an enrichment of O2 and elimination of CO2 and cannulas for drainage and re-injection. Recently, the establishment of such assistance became possible percutaneously, allowing it to be initiated at the intensive care bedside or even before in-hospital admission.