Continuous double volume exchange transfusion is a safe treatment for ECMO-induced hemolysis

Abstract

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)-related hemolysis is a recognized complication and remains a source of significant morbidity and mortality in the neonatal population. This is the first description of continuous double-volume exchange transfusion (ET) performed for profound hemolysis that developed in a neonate with congenital heart disease on VA ECMO for sepsis. The aim of this report is to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of performing ET on a physiologically frail patient on ECMO support. Keywords: Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, Hemolysis, Exchange transfusion