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Updated: Jul 9, 2025
Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in a Mouse
Published on: October 24, 2018
Successful implementation of prophylactic veno-venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in high-risk trauma
Juan I Chico1, Vanesa Gomez1, Santiago Freita1
1Critical Care Department, Alvaro Cunqueiro Hospital, Vigo, Spain.
Introduction:
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is increasingly utilized in trauma care, yet its elective use during high-risk surgeries remains unreported.
Case Report:
We report a successful instance of prophylactic ECMO support via a Veno-Venoarterial (V-VA) configuration during high-risk surgery in a patient with extensive trauma, including severe thoracic damage and a highly unstable thoracic spine fracture. V-VA ECMO prevented complications such as hemodynamic and respiratory collapse associated with chest compression during the surgical procedure, as the patient should be in a prone position.
Discussion:
The potential of ECMO as prophylactic support in high-risk surgery amongst trauma patients underscores a novel application of this technology. Complex configurations must be evaluated to avoid associated ECMO complications.
Conclusion:
Our case highlights the potential of prophylactic ECMO hybrid modes, indicating their safe application during high-risk procedures in select trauma patients.
