Cardiac Arrest and Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in the Peripartum Period

Maternal cardiac arrest occurs in 1 of 12,000 to 36,000 pregnancies and presents with unique etiologies and physiologic considerations. Pregnancy alters resuscitation dynamics, making key modifications to advanced cardiac life support protocols such as left uterine displacement, early and effective airway management, and consideration of perimortem cesarean delivery, crucial for successful resuscitation. Extracorporeal life support may be indicated in refractory cases and must account for unique maternal physiology, like increased oxygen consumption and cardiac output. Despite its complexity, maternal cardiac arrest can have favorable outcomes with timely multidisciplinary care, highlighting the importance of preparedness in maternal code response.