Device profile of the integrated VitalFlow ECMO system.

Introduction: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a life support system composed of a pump, an oxygenator, hemocompatible component coating, and integrated monitoring. ECMO systems have evolved greatly since the initial intraoperative cardiopulmonary bypass circuits.

Areas covered: This device profile describes the VitalFlow ECMO system, which has been cleared for ECMO use in the United States. This integrated system is designed for the care of the ECMO patient in the intensive care unit. This profile reviews design improvements to the centrifugal pump, the blood flow path and monitoring capabilities of the oxygenator, the hemocompatible surface coating, as well as the user-friendly console and the mobility-focused caddy. Capabilities and advantages over older designs are discussed.

Expert opinion: All the components in modern ECMO machines (ie, centrifugal pumps, membrane oxygenators, coated blood circuits, integrated hemodynamic monitoring, and control devices) are individually important. The VitaFlow system integrates these components while still maintaining a degree of modularity, allowing for a small, highly human-compatible, highly physiologically supported system that causes minimal blood trauma and facilitates in-hospital transport and early mobilization.