World's Largest Resource for Cardiovascular Perfusion

Perfusion StaffingPerfusion Staffing
   +1 888-499-5672Login
Perfusion NewswireECMO ZoneAir in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Can Never be Overemphasized

Air in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Can Never be Overemphasized

ECMO Zone, Perfusion Devices, Perfusion Zone, Tiny Perfusion Letter

Introduction

Air in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit may lead to deleterious consequence.

Case report

Three cases of air in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were presented. Air was introduced from right jugular venous sheath during percutaneous septal repair, pulmonary artery catheter during intensive care unit, and sewing holes on atrial wall during surgery respectively. Accidents in Case 2 and Case 3 were successfully managed, while Case 1 was suspected of cerebral air embolism through transseptal right-to-left shunt.

Discussion

With extracorporeal membrane oxygenation being widely applied in more clinical settings, especially in catheterization lab, risks of air in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation increase. More attention should be paid to patients with communication between right and left heart system, especially in situations when venous accesses’ exposure to air could not be avoided.

Conclusion

Air in the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit should never be overemphasized, especially during special procedures.

Leave a Reply

You may also like

Main Zone, Mobile Zone, Perfusion Zone

Arterial Filter Bypass Loop: What Occurs in this Area during Cardiopulmonary Bypass and Are There Potential Patient Implications

The arterial filter is an integral part of bypass circuitry. When introduced, manufacturers suggested a bypass loop for retrograde priming and de-airing, and for uninterrupted blood flow in case of malfunction. Practice has shown antegrade priming and de-airing is possible. This questions the necessity of the loop and presents the question—what occurs in the loop during bypass?

Join TodayJoin Today