Introduction: Over the last decade, eCPR programs have become more and more popular, at least amongst high-volume centers. Despite its rise in popularity and promising outcome, strategies concerning pre- and post-implantation of VA-ECMO remain at least debatable. Besides, integrating the appropriate set-up, managing anticoagulation, implementing LV-venting, and predicting neurological outcome play important roles in caring for thise highly selective patient-collective. We sought to present our institutional´s techniques for establishing an eCPR program and managing patients peri- and post implantation in eCPR-runs.
Areas covered: This manuscript covers the majority of clinical concerns and parameters for establishing an eCPR program and its recent advantages. We will describe a safe way of cannulation, setting anticoagulation goals, strategies for LV-venting and ICU-treatment. Also included, an elaboration on neurological and cardiac prognostication.
Expert opinion: We advocate ultrasound-guided cannula placement in eCPR patients. Also, we emphasize the importance of using stiffer wires and smaller arterial cannula sizes due to the different physiological parameters of OHCA patients. After cannulation, we aim for lower flow goals, the concept of 'partial VA-ECMO,' and lower anticoagulatory targets. LV-venting with Impella should remain an individual case to case decision.
Keywords: ECMO; Impella; LV-venting; cardiogenic shock; eCPR; mechanical circulatory devices.