Hemostasis Management during Adult Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Shot in the Dark?

Abstract

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been used increasingly in adult patients with cardiopulmonary failure. According to the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization’s (ELSO’s) 2012 report over 51,000 patients have received ECMO. Most cases are for neonates; however, an increasing proportion is for adults.2 ECMO is a unique life saving therapy, but many patients experience complications including: hemolysis, systemic thromboembolism, neurologic complications, and bleeding.