ECMO Plus Intra-arrest PCI - Excellent Option in a ‘no other Option’ Situation

Abstract

A major cause of sudden unexpected death is cardiac arrest. Despite a properly performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation, only a minority of patients who suffer cardiac arrest are able to be meaningfully resuscitated. ECPR (an alternative CPR method in which Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is used) along with intra-arrest PCI can be effective lifesaving dual procedures for patients in whom conventional Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) cannot achieve the return of spontaneous circulation. Also, important would be the fact that near optimal temporal perfusion of the other vital organs is ensured during the course of this high-risk situation needing a quick salvage.