Small Arterial Return Cannulae in Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Abstract

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is used to support refractory cardiogenic shock. The arterial return cannula size is typically chosen to maximise flow based on the largest cannula the patient can safely accommodate. However, smaller arterial return cannulae may be easier to insert and reduce cannula-related complications. This in vitro study aimed to quantify the haemodynamic effects of different arterial return cannula sizes on a simulated cardiogenic shock patient.