ECMO

Question 1

What are the two broad types of ECMO

Answer 1

1) Venous - Venous
2) Venous - Arterial

Question 2

how do you modulate C02 in the ECMO circuit

Answer 2

sweep gas (inc sweep -> dec C02)

Question 3

What is the most important factor in myocardial 02 demand

Answer 3

wall tension

Question 4

What are three causes of LV distension when on ECMO

Answer 4

1) Venous return not captured by the venous line
2) bronchial and thebesian veins
3) incompetent AV valve

Question 5

What LV pressure do you want to avoid

Answer 5

above 20-25 mmHg

Question 6

What with regards to the LV functioning do you need to ensure when on ECMO

Answer 6

You want some activity

Question 7

How do you ensure LV ejection (e.g. no stagnant blood) when on ecmo

Answer 7

1) inotrops
2) decreasing ecmo flow
3) impella
4) direct LV venting