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Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Peripheral Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Without Left Ventricular Venting
Published on: January 17, 2025
Management of left ventricular distension during peripheral extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for cardiogenic shock
1Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State College of Medicine, Penn State Hershey Heart & Vascular Institute, Hershey, PA 17033-0850 , USA. bsoleimani@hmc.psu.edu
Abstract:
The application of peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the management of inotrope-refractory cardiogenic shock has proven controversial because of concerns about sub-optimal drainage of the left heart, resulting in left ventricular distension and pulmonary oedema. In this article, we will discuss the pathophysiological basis and clinical implications of left ventricular distension following institution of peripheral extracorporeal life support. We will also review the clinical strategies used to circumvent left ventricular distension and pulmonary oedema in these patients.
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