NYMC Faculty Publications

Simple Technique of Distal Leg Perfusion During Heart Transplant in Patients With Preoperative Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support

Author Type(s)

Faculty

DOI

10.1177/02676591211064721

Journal Title

Perfusion

First Page

473

Last Page

476

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-1-2023

Department

Surgery

Second Department

Medicine

Abstract

Direct heart transplant from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) support is challenging. Continuation of postoperative VA-ECMO support may be required in the setting of primary graft dysfunction or severe vasoplegia. We describe a simple technique to perfuse the ipsilateral leg of an arterial ECMO cannula during heart transplant while the ECMO circuit is turned off but maintaining the arterial cannula and distal perfusion catheter in place. This technique minimizes the number of intraoperative procedures with a minimal risk of leg ischemia, and provides a smooth transition to postoperative VA-ECMO support if necessary.

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