How to transform peripheral extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the simplest mid-term paracorporeal ventricular assist device

Abstract

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) provides excellent support to circulation. However, ECMO capacity to effectively assist the heart, and in particular the left ventricle, is limited. We herein review the modifications of left ventricular dynamics during peripheral ECMO, highlight the importance of left ventricle venting and describe a method for the conversion of a femoro-femoral ECMO into a paracorporeal left ventricular assist device.