The type of ECMO treatment chosen depends on whether the problem lies in the lungs, the heart, or both. Doctors carefully assess the patient’s condition before selecting the most appropriate form of ECMO.

VA ECMO (Veno-Arterial ECMO)

VA ECMO supports both the heart and lungs. It is used when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, often along with lung failure.

Common conditions where VA ECMO is used:

Cardiogenic shock (sudden failure of the heart to pump blood).
Severe heart failure not responding to medicines.
Fulminant myocarditis (sudden, severe inflammation of the heart muscle).
Heart failure after cardiac surgery.
Cardiac arrest requiring prolonged resuscitation.

In VA ECMO, oxygen-rich blood is returned directly into an artery. This helps maintain blood circulation to vital organs such as the brain, kidneys, and liver when the heart is too weak to do so on its own.

VV ECMO (Veno-Venous ECMO)

VV ECMO supports lung function only, while the heart continues to pump blood normally. It is commonly used in ECMO for respiratory failure.

Conditions where VV ECMO may be considered:

Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
Viral pneumonia, including influenza and COVID-19.
Severe aspiration (food or fluid entering the lungs).
Lung injury or lung failure after major surgery.
Post-transplant lung failure.

In VV ECMO, blood is returned to a vein after oxygenation. This improves oxygen levels and removes carbon dioxide without placing extra strain on the heart.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Support