USE OF VENOVENOUS EXTRACORPOREAL MEMBRANE OXYGENATION AFTER TRAUMATIC INJURY : A STUDY OF 9 CASES

Abstract

　　The usefulness of venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) has been reported in cases of severe respiratory failure. However, its use has been avoided in trauma cases due the risk of hemorrhage. We retrospectively examined 9 trauma cases in which ECMO was used between April 2007 and March 2018. The patients in 5 cases (55.6%) survived. Although ECMO improved the pH and PaCO₂ levels, it was considered to have promoted exsanguination in 2 cases. ECMO may be useful for trauma patients, but it is necessary to preserve the blood volume prior to ECMO and examine the blood return site based on the injury site.