Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for treatment of cardiac failure in adult patients
Despite supra optimal drug therapy and non pharmacological optimization of the heart failure patient, when decrease in organ perfusion persists (renal liver & pulmonary), a short term mechanical device (ECMO) OR a long term VAD can be used as a bridge to heart transplant
VA ECMO is used for patients with a combination of acute cardiac and respiratory failure
Can be used for days to weeks and gives good outcome in heart failure patients.
The better outcome requires a multidisciplinary approach to prevent complications unique to itself and limit organ injury before and during this support.
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