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Practical Considerations for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Use During Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Misty Radosevich1, Alexandra Anderson1, Miguel Teixeira1
1Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia
|December 12, 2024
Summary
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is rarely needed for liver transplant patients. This review offers expert advice on using ECMO effectively and safely during liver transplantation.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Liver transplantation is a complex procedure.
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support is infrequently required in liver transplant recipients.
- Peritransplant ECMO necessitates careful management to optimize outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on ECMO use in liver transplant patients.
- To provide expert technical and practical guidance for ECMO implementation in this population.
- To enhance the safety and efficacy of ECMO in the peritransplant period.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing data on ECMO in liver transplantation.
- Synthesis of expert recommendations from a high-volume liver transplant and ECMO center.
- Discussion of key considerations for ECMO management.
Main Results:
- Limited data exists on ECMO use in liver transplant recipients.
- Specific technical and practical considerations are crucial for successful ECMO support.
- Minimizing complications is a primary goal in peritransplant ECMO.
Conclusions:
- ECMO can be a vital support in select liver transplant cases.
- Careful planning and execution are essential for optimal ECMO outcomes.
- Further research may elucidate best practices for ECMO in liver transplantation.

