veno-arterial ECMO
Also written as: VA-ECMO — Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation configuration providing both cardiac and respiratory support through arterial cannulation.
Full Definition
Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is a form of mechanical circulatory support that provides both cardiac and pulmonary assistance by draining deoxygenated blood from the venous system and returning oxygenated blood directly to the arterial circulation. This configuration bypasses both the heart and lungs, making it suitable for patients with cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, or combined cardiopulmonary failure. VA-ECMO can be established through peripheral cannulation (typically femoral vessels) or central cannulation (directly to the heart and aorta). The technique requires careful monitoring of arterial flow, left ventricular loading, and potential complications such as limb ischemia and arterial dissection.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as VA-ECMO in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient was placed on veno-arterial ECMO for cardiogenic shock following myocardial infarction." — ICU progress note
- "Peripheral veno-arterial ECMO was established through femoral cannulation to provide hemodynamic support." — Procedure report