[Application of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in catastrophic pulmonary embolism]

Acute high-risk pulmonary embolism (HRPE), particularly in patients progressing to catastrophic pulmonary embolism (PE), is associated with extremely high mortality. As a cardiopulmonary support technique, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) provides critical circulatory and respiratory support. Whether used as a standalone treatment or a bridge to definitive therapy (such as surgical embolectomy or catheter-based intervention), ECMO plays a pivotal role in the management of catastrophic PE. This review summarizes the role of ECMO in combination with various therapeutic strategies for catastrophic PE, aiming to inform clinical practice.