Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine (Jul 2021)

Overview of Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) Support for the Management of Cardiogenic Shock

  • Adamantios Tsangaris,
  • Tamas Alexy,
  • Rajat Kalra,
  • Marinos Kosmopoulos,
  • Andrea Elliott,
  • Jason A. Bartos,
  • Jason A. Bartos,
  • Demetris Yannopoulos,
  • Demetris Yannopoulos

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2021.686558
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8

Abstract

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Cardiogenic shock accounts for ~100,000 annual hospital admissions in the United States. Despite improvements in medical management strategies, in-hospital mortality remains unacceptably high. Multiple mechanical circulatory support devices have been developed with the aim to provide hemodynamic support and to improve outcomes in this population. Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is the most advanced temporary life support system that is unique in that it provides immediate and complete hemodynamic support as well as concomitant gas exchange. In this review, we discuss the fundamental concepts and hemodynamic aspects of VA-ECMO support in patients with cardiogenic shock of various etiologies. In addition, we review the common indications, contraindications and complications associated with VA-ECMO use.

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